The Bible often speaks of the ‘fear of the Lord.’ Often these statements are quickly followed in sermons with a sort of disclaimer; it’s not fear as we know it. It’s not about being scared. It’s overwhelming awe. Well, yes and no. Let’s face it, not much about God is ‘as we know it’. Yet, maybe our finite human use of the word ‘fear’ can help us understand God’s use of it.

A few examples came to mind:

People running for their lives from bombings and warfare.

Parents grabbing their toddler’s hand as he heads into a busy street.

Motorists slowing down when they pass a police car waiting by the road.

Here on earth, fear often has little to do with awe or amazement. It’s more about anxiety or horror concerning something out of man’s control. For example, preventing a speeding ticket, keeping a child safe, or escaping dangerous or evil situations.

And fear of God? So much more.

Israel was told God required it. “Only that you fear your god and live in a way that pleases him” and Solomon tells us that “fearing God…and keeping his commandments is the duty of all mankind.”

The Old Testament uses the Hebrew yirah and the New Testament the Greek phobos. Both carry a range of meanings, from terror to worshipful awe, depending on the context. I heard one minister remind his listeners to not pass over the terror and trembling!

After receiving the 10 commandments (and that scene must have brought some terror to their hearts), Moses tells the people, “Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning.” Fear and grace in the same sentence!

The Psalmist adds to the description friendship and love. “The LORD is a friend to all who fear Him” and His love “remains forever with those who fear Him.”

God’s love and sovereignty are so extraordinary that it is frightening. “Any person in their right mind would respond accordingly…with reverence, awe, obedience and showing Him our honor and respect.”