Proverbs is one of several books in the Bible written as “Wisdom Literature.” These books, each with a unique flair, do their best to present guidelines for living a good life. Proverbs specifically uses short sayings that are probabilities not promises; wisdom not law; and principles with practical applications. Its intent is to impart knowledge and give you wisdom lived out because of what we know. The wisdom is specific, however, in that it is God-centered.
Whether you are new to the faith or have walked in it for a long time, you have read in the Bible and heard “the fear of the Lord” said many times. However, some of us may not have taken the time to unpack what this truly means. In this particular Scripture, this is actually where true wisdom begins. There is a life-changing truth and difference between the fear of man, which immobilizes us, and the fear of God, which should actually push us to action.
As someone who has struggled with real, diagnosable fear and anxiety, I understand that fear can sometimes cripple me as I overfocus on the things ruminating in my head. In those moments, I am consumed by the things of man, not of God. The fear the Bible refers to regarding God is one of reverence, awe, greatness, and holiness. One of the most real examples for me in understanding this is when I am in nature. When I stand at the base of a massive waterfall or I sit beside an ocean that is both beautiful and powerful at the same time….it begins to make sense. It feels like worship and I feel overwhelmed by His presence there. Out of that awe for what the ocean can do, there is a reminder of how small I really am, and that brings about both humility and obedience. The God who created that ocean and that waterfall is deserving of the same humility and obedience. It calls us to put him at the center, to focus on him, and to lean into the wisdom he gives us through the love he has for us, his children.
Questions for reflection:
1) When was the last time you were in “awe?” What did that feel like? How did you respond?
2) Is “fearing God” something that is difficult to understand? What have you found helpful in making sense of it?
3) What wisdom is God calling you to listen to in your life out of love for you?