Fear Not, Fear God: A Journey from Anxiety to Divine Awe
If "fear not" is the Bible's most common phrase, how do we reconcile it with the equally prominent call to fear God? This question lies at the heart of understanding our relationship with them.
Understanding "Fear of God"
The "fear of God" in the Bible isn't about being terrified like we are of a dangerous animal or a scary monster.
Instead, it encompasses a few key ideas:
•Awe and Reverence: It's about recognizing God's immense power, holiness, and majesty. God is the creator of the universe, and that deserves our utmost respect and awe.
•Respect for Authority: Just like we respect the laws of the land or the authority of our parents, fearing God means acknowledging God's ultimate authority in our lives.
•Obedience and Trust: Fearing God often goes hand in hand with obedience to God's commands. It's about trusting that God knows what's best for us and choosing to follow God's path.
•Love and Gratitude: Paradoxically, the fear of God is also connected to love. When we truly understand God's love and grace, it inspires a deep reverence and gratitude that can be described as fear.
"Fear Not" in Context
The "fear not" messages in the Bible are usually given in specific situations:
>Facing Enemies or Danger: God tells people not to be afraid when they are facing difficult circumstances or powerful enemies. This is a promise of God's presence and protection.
>Uncertainty about the Future: When people are worried about what lies ahead, God reassures them not to fear, as God is in control.
>Called to a Difficult Task: When God calls someone to do something challenging, the "fear not" message encourages them to trust in God's ability to equip them.
Reconciling the Two
The key is that the "fear not" messages are about not being afraid of circumstances or other people. They are not meant to negate the healthy fear of God, which is about our relationship with the divine.
Think of it like this: you might have a healthy respect and "fear" for your parents, acknowledging their authority and loving them deeply. This doesn't mean you're afraid to approach them or that you live in constant terror of them. Similarly, we can have a healthy fear of God that coexists with love, trust, and a sense of safety in God's care.
The Bible presents a balanced view: we should not be afraid of the world around us because God is with us. At the same time, we should cultivate a fear of God that is rooted in awe, reverence, gratitude, and a desire to live in accordance with God's will.