(c) Amy S. Lewis, 2010

Ernie has a few very irrational fears. Boulders. Tree stumps. I don’t understand why he fears those things. It’s a little discouraging actually because his fears tell me he doesn’t fully trust me to lead him safely. Many of us fear heights, spiders, snakes or flying. While they are very real to us, some would say these fears are irrational as well.

Horse..fear from katefilipi

There’s one fear that is not irrational, but it’s seldom seen in our society. A fear of the Lord.

Proverbs tells us, “Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in understanding.” (9:10). And Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 says, “Fear God and obey his commands for this is the duty of every person. God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad.”

Fear Grounded in Respect and Awe
We are to fear God, but not as Ernie cowers at a rock or I scream at a snake. Fear of the Lord is grounded in respect, in knowing that God is in control of every circumstance – he holds life and breath for every living being in his hands. We should fear him because he is perfect and holy, and in comparison, we fall short. We are not to be ashamed of ourselves but be in awe of God because of his perfection, patience, grace and mercy.

We should also fear him because he will judge us one day. If we have a true fear of the Lord and an ever-present realization that he knows everything we say and do, we may be more reluctant to gossip or judge someone. Perhaps we’d be more willing to share our faith with those who do not yet believe. God’s treatment of nonbelievers on judgment day will be a truly fearful scene. He will separate them like chaff from wheat and throw them into the lake of fire. The thought of that should instill the fear of the Lord in anyone.

Do Not Be Afraid
There are also many times when the Bible tell us “do not be afraid.” In context, God is telling us not to fear people, or sickness or death or financial lack. Fear only him and he will subdue your other fears and give you peace. Trust him to lead you and protect you.

Isaiah 26:3 (NLT): You will keep in perfect peace
all who trust in you,
all whose thoughts are fixed on you!

Questions for reflection:
1. What fears affect your horse? How does it make you feel when your horse fears something?
2. What does it mean to you to fear the Lord? What does it look like to you?
3. How do you describe someone who fears God? What character traits could you model in your own life?