The Paradox of Fear: Understanding the Complexities of Fearing God
Fear is a universal human experience. It can be exhilarating, like the rush of adrenaline on a rollercoaster ride, or debilitating, like the grip of panic that leaves us shaken and helpless. But what happens when we fear God? Is it a healthy reverence or a crippling anxiety? The answer lies in understanding the different types of fear and how they relate to our relationship with God.
The Sinful Fear of God
There is a type of fear that is condemned by Scripture, a fear that flows from sin and drives us away from God. This fear is characterized by a dread of being exposed as sinners and a desire to flee from God’s presence. It is the fear of the unbeliever who hates God and fears being held accountable for their actions. This fear is rooted in the heart of sin and generates doubt, rationalizing unbelief and inspiring people to invent alternative “realities” in place of the living God.
The Example of Christopher Hitchens
The late Christopher Hitchens, a self-proclaimed antitheist, exemplified this type of fear. He opposed the possibility of God’s existence, motivated by a fear of being watched and controlled by a divine entity. Hitchens misunderstood God, seeing Him as a severe and oppressive being, rather than a loving and merciful Father. This misconception led to a fear that drove him away from God, rather than drawing him closer.
The Fear of Letting Go of Sin
Another aspect of sinful fear is the fear of letting go of sin, or the dread of holiness. This fear is characterized by a reluctance to surrender our self-dependence, misery, anger, and grumbles. We fear the light of God’s presence, which exposes our true nature and requires us to let go of our sinful tendencies. This fear is a struggle against joy, a refusal to accept the liberation and purification that comes with a relationship with God.
The Spirit’s Work: Producing a Wonderful Fear
But there is another type of fear, a fear that is produced by the Spirit and draws us to God. This fear is characterized by a reverence and awe for God’s majesty, a recognition of His power and holiness. It is a fear that wins us over, rather than driving us away, and inspires us to worship and obey God out of love and gratitude.
Overcoming Sinful Fear
So how do we overcome sinful fear and cultivate a healthy reverence for God? The answer lies in understanding God’s character and nature, recognizing His love and mercy, and surrendering our sinful tendencies to Him. By doing so, we can develop a wonderful fear that draws us closer to God, rather than driving us away. As we grow in our relationship with God, we will come to understand that His presence is not something to be feared, but something to be cherished and adored.
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