Bible Reading: Exodus 25; Proverbs 1; John 4; 2 Corinthians 13
Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
What does it mean to fear the LORD? Should we be scared of God? No the Bible says…
1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
When we love God and know that he loves us, we are not scared of God. However, we can love God and fear him at the same time. To fear God means to be careful to give him the respect that he deserves. He is God and we are not! You can love a person who is greater than you. You can love a great man or a great woman. Respect is an important way to understand the fear of the Lord. Do you respect God? Do you realize the holiness of God?
Hebrews 12:29 For our God is a consuming fire.
If you want true knowledge, you must begin with a healthy fear of God. A reverential respect for his holiness and his majesty is a prerequisite for knowledge. A fool on the other hand will despise wisdom and instruction. He might want to know a lot of things, but he will not do anything with that knowledge. He will not be instructed. A person will learn who WANTS to learn. Do you value wisdom? Do you value instruction? Then apply the knowledge you have and God says you will have more. The fear of the LORD is the BEGINNING of wisdom. True wisdom is doing what Jesus says to do (see Matthew 7:24-27). When you encounter the Word of God and let it take root in your heart and grow that is the beginning. You will progress in knowledge and wisdom as you continue to apply what Jesus teaches you.
John 7:17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.
Do you desire true knowledge then do what God says and you will gain more. Respect God enough to heed his word and obey. Then you will grow in wisdom and receive more instruction. Some have been hearing God's word for years but have done little with it. This shows a lack of respect for God and he will not give you more.
Fear God! He is holy!
In Christ,
Rody
