Sermon on the Fear of God
Introduction:
Fear is a powerful emotion that can control our lives. It can paralyze us, keeping us from reaching our full potential. Or it can motivate us, driving us to take action and achieve great things.
The Bible teaches us that there is a healthy fear that we should have. It is the fear of God. This fear is not about being terrified of God. Rather, it is a reverent awe and respect for His power, holiness, and majesty.
The Fear of God in Scripture:
Throughout the Bible, we see examples of the fear of God.
- Proverbs 9:10: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."
- Psalm 19:9: "The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever; the judgments of the Lord are true, and righteous altogether."
- Hebrews 12:28-29: "Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire."
Benefits of the Fear of God:
The fear of God brings many benefits to our lives.
- It leads to wisdom: Those who fear God seek His guidance and wisdom in all they do. As a result, they make wiser decisions and live more fulfilling lives.
- It protects us from sin: The fear of God helps us resist temptation and avoid sin. We know that God is watching and that we will be held accountable for our actions.
- It brings us joy and peace: When we know that we are in right relationship with God, we experience a deep sense of joy and peace. We know that we are loved and forgiven, and we have nothing to fear.
Overcoming the Fear of God:
Sometimes, we may struggle with the fear of God. We may feel overwhelmed by His power and holiness. However, the Bible assures us that God is not a distant, unapproachable being. He is a loving Father who desires to have a relationship with us.
If you are struggling with the fear of God, here are some tips:
- Focus on God's love: Remember that God loves you unconditionally. He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to die for you so that you could be forgiven and have eternal life.
- Spend time in prayer: Talk to God regularly. Share your fears and concerns with Him. He will listen and give you strength.
- Read the Bible: Get to know God and His character through the Bible. As you learn more about Him, your fear will diminish.
Conclusion:
The fear of God is a healthy and beneficial emotion that can lead us to wisdom, protect us from sin, and bring us joy and peace. However, it is important to overcome any unhealthy fears that we may have and focus on the love and grace of God. Remember, God is not a distant, unapproachable being. He is a loving Father who desires to have a relationship with you.