FEAR THAT PROTECTS
Jenna Worsham
Today’s Scripture: “Sin whispers to the wicked, deep within their hearts. They have no fear of God to restrain them.” Psalm 36:1, NLT
Theme: Sin falsely promises the good life; God’s blessed life is found in the obedience that restrains sinful behavior.
RESTRAINING FEAR
When I was little, I had no fear of metal cookie sheets. My mom pulled one out of the oven and before she could say, “Hot!” I reached for a cookie and burned my hand. Conversely, I had a healthy fear of the serrated edge of the butter knife I was allowed to use when making peanut butter and jam sandwiches. As I finished making my sandwich, I very carefully licked the remaining peanut butter off the knife, avoiding the serrated edge. I’ve passed on my healthy fear of serrated edges. My kids prefer to lick Nutella from the butter knife – carefully. I still love freshly baked cookies and have learned to become vigilant, using potholders and having restraint after pulling cookies from the oven.
MOSES IN THE DESERT
Moses led God’s people through the desert. While they were wandering, God provided for them, fought for them, and disciplined them. After God gave Moses the Ten Commandments, God’s presence caused a big lightning storm, and all the people were afraid. They knew what God expected of them and they saw His power displayed. The people stood far away from God. They let Moses get close to God and interact with Him on their behalf. “Moses said to the people, ‘Do not fear, for God has come to test you, that the fear of him may be before you, that you may not sin’” (Exodus 20:20, ESV).
FEAR OF GOD
On one hand, God our Father doesn’t want us to be afraid to come to Him, ask Him questions, or be close to Him. On the other hand, God wants us to fear natural consequences and wrath so that we will avoid the terrible results of sin. Fearing God helps us make better decisions by causing us to consider His way first. Fearing God also helps motivate us to restrain sinful behavior. Restraining sinful behavior helps us to live better, more fruitful, and more fulfilling lives.
When we fear God, we trust that His way for us is better than our way. He wants what is best for us even more than I want to avoid burning my hands or cutting my tongue. Because of our failings as parents or as authorities over others, we misunderstand the intentions of our loving God. Fearing God is good for us. He does not abuse power. When we fear Him, it helps us avoid sin.
Make It Personal: How do you respond when you hear the phrase “fear of God?” In what ways has your fear of authority saved you from poor decision-making or harsh consequences in the past?
Pray: Father God, help me to appreciate the love that motivates You. I recognize that the reason You want me to fear You is for my own benefit and protection. Like a good parent, You want me to trust You. When confusing and difficult scenarios present themselves, healthy “fear” will result in restraint. Thank You for caring for me and wanting the best for me. Thank You for Your forgiveness when I make mistakes. Keep teaching me to fear You and stop sinning. I come to You like a child. I admit I don’t know everything, and I want Your help. Please provide the humility I need to learn from You and listen to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Read: Exodus 20:18-21; Psalm 111:10; Psalm 28:7; Proverbs 9:10; Psalm 9:10
Weekly Memory Verse: “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.” Psalm 1:1-2, ESV