By Ken Blue
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.” Proverbs 9:10
The world’s definition of fear, to some people is, “a sign of weakness.” I believe the greatest fear Americans have is the fear of rejection. Thus, they assume the more material possessions, or approval from others, the more acceptances they will have. This kind of fear leads to anger, disappointment, and depression.
First, there is great safety, and reward in having the right kind of fear. The absence of all fear shows a lack of wisdom and understanding. There are many things we should fear. Sadly, most are ignorant of what these are. Out text states, that the fear of the LORD is the “beginning” of wisdom and “understanding.” Some have not reached beginning point yet.
Secondly, “… fear the LORD, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.” Proverbs 3:7-8. Fear will keep one from things that will destroy health and strength. The word “navel” refers to physical strength. Marrow of the bones speaks of renewed strength. The body is refreshed with new blood that comes from the marrow. The fear of the LORD will guard your physical health, and renew your strength daily.
Thirdly, glaring evidence that one does not fear the LORD is their attitude toward wickedness. “The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogance, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.” Proverbs 8:13. One thing God hates is pride. Other than unbelief, pride may be man’s number one sin. God hates, “pride, arrogance, the evil way, and the forward mouth…” A believer should hate what God hates. We must deal with this sin in our own heart before we point a finger at others. Do we hate the sin of pride in our own life? How do we deal with it? The fear of the LORD is to hate this sin. The reason we should hate it in our life, is that it exalts self above God.
Fear and obedience to the LORD brings great peace, satisfaction, and tranquility. That which we so desperately wanted, and thought would make us happy, soon loses its ability to do so. The lust for more money only leads to the desire for more. We believe, if we go against God’s will, and do our own will, or have more material possession, we will find happiness. It is better to have a little, with contentment, than to have more, with strife and misery. “Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith.” Proverbs 15:16.
There is no end to the benefits of having the right kind of fear; common sense tells you that. Men and women, who boast of not having any fear, are lying, or delusional. Why not think for a moment, and come to terms with what you really fear? Are you wise, or herwise?
Pastor Ken Blue was born in Boswell, Ark. In 1955 he accepted Christ as his Savior. He and his wife Joyce were married in 1955. They have 5 children. He graduated from Midwestern Baptist Bible College in 1969 and started the Open Door Baptist Church in Lynnwood, Wa. where he pastored for 39 years. Because of health issues (ALS) he was forced to resign as pastor. It is his desire to continue to be used of God to help pastors and believers through this ministry.