The Power of Reverence
As I reflected on Psalm 103:13, I was struck by the phrase “those who fear Him.” My mind wandered to my own relationship with God, one built on intimate love and trust. Can there truly be fear in such a connection? I embarked on a journey to uncover the truth.
Unpacking the Concept of Fear
According to the Strong’s Concordance and Dictionary, the Hebrew word for fear, “yaw-ray’,” encompasses a broader meaning than mere fear. It often connotes reverence, a sense of awe, and respect. This nuance is crucial in understanding our relationship with God.
A Deeper Look at Scripture
In Deuteronomy 6:13, we’re instructed to “fear” the Lord our God, but Jesus’ quote in Luke 4:8 sheds new light on this command. He emphasizes the importance of worshiping and serving the Lord with reverence, rather than fear. This distinction is vital, as fear can create a barrier between us and God.
The Dangers of Misconception
When we view God through the lens of fear, we open ourselves to the enemy’s manipulation. Satan twists God’s words, sowing seeds of doubt and uncertainty. This is why it’s essential to understand the true meaning of “fear” in Scripture.
Reverence vs. Fear
The King James translators’ choice to translate “mowra” as fear, when it also means reverence or awe, has contributed to the misconception. Similarly, the Hebrew word “guwr” can signify fear, but also means to stir up, sojourn, dwell with, or stand in awe. It’s time to shift our focus from fear to reverence.
A Call to Intimacy
Let us seek a deeper, more loving relationship with God, unencumbered by fear. As Revelation 3:20 and 1 John 4:18-19 remind us, perfect love casts out fear. May we be rooted and grounded in love, comprehending the breadth and depth of Christ’s love for us.
Embracing the Fullness of God
As we surrender to God’s love, may we be filled with the fullness of God, as Ephesians 3:17-19 promises. Let us respond to God’s knock on the door, inviting Him to dwell in our hearts and minds. In doing so, we’ll experience the transformative power of reverence and love.
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