A Heritage of Obedience

 

“…the Lord’s love is with those who fear him…”

—Psalm 103:17a

The Bible often uses the phrase “fear the Lord.” It doesn’t mean fear in the sense of being “terrified or profoundly afraid.” Rather, it means “a deep respect born out of a loving obedience.”

So, fear of the Lord means that in response to the acknowledgement of God’s great love, we feel a deep respect that prompts us to respond with obedience to God’s will and to His Word.

The Psalmist captures this thought in Psalm 103:17-18:

But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children—with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts.

God’s unfailing love fills the hearts of His obedient children. Their obedience illustrates their respect (fear) for the God who loves them.

Let us rejoice this day in the love that God pours into our lives. Let’s respond in obedience to Him.

As we consciously and purposefully bend our selfish and foolish will to His divine will, our obedience will reap the reward of showing Him our love and respect.

 

_{Copyright © 2016 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

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