I started a new study this week on the fear of God. It’s a little different than I usually do. This study is via audiobook, broken down by weeks and days of each week, and has a basic outline to go with it all. While listening, I am copying down scripture references, quotes by men of God, and snippets of the theme of that day’s talk. It always has a prayer included in each session that is powerful in its simplicity.

When I get up and walk away from it, often the thoughts and feelings it brings up go along with me throughout the day. The focus of this study I am doing is to learn that the fear of God does not mean, as a Christian, you are to be afraid of God. Know His expectations, yes, and know that there can be negative results we have to live with because of our choices for sinful behavior, and repentance is required. But God’s love remains, and if we have accepted, by faith, Jesus as Lord and Savior, our Sin is forgiven, and our name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. The focus this week, so far, is on understanding what the Biblical Fear of God is, defined in this study as the Awe of God, and how it can transform your views and walk with God.

I hope everyone reading this will have found books, tapes, or videos in addition to Bible reading plans that take you outside of yourself and into a deeper personal relationship with God. After a month of difficult weeks, I am even more determined now that the primary focus in my life is growing close to God, the whole of God in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

I find it so helpful to be reminded that I don’t have to fear God but can have delight in trusting Him. This world can be a fearful place. The fear we can feel is part of the emotional package God gave us. A warning system that things may not be good. But that fear won’t dominate; we won’t be consumed by it and let it put roadblocks on our obedience to God if our awe of the creator is a powerful part of our lives.

It’s a prayerful, continual-growing process for me. May the growth never stop.

Have a blessed weekend, my friends. – Vicki