The Fear of the Lord and its Reward
- Funke Otiwhor Ajigboye
- Dec 30, 2024
- 4 min read
Psalm 128: 1-8
Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways. Psalm 128: 1
What is the Fear of the Lord?
The fear of the Lord is not about being scared of God; instead, it involves having a deep respect and reverence for Him. It means recognizing God's greatness and authority, leading to a humble willingness to obey His commands in every aspect of life. This kind of fear encourages us to live in a way that honours God, understanding that He is worthy of our love and obedience.
In Proverbs 1:7, we learn that the fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge. This means that to truly understand life and its complexities, we must first acknowledge God’s authority.
And unto man, he said, Behold, the fear of the LORD is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding. Job 28:28
Furthermore, Proverbs 8:13 tells us that to fear the Lord is to hate evil, pride, and arrogance. This fear is about aligning our lives with God’s will and recognizing His sovereignty over all things.
The Blessings of Fearing God
The Psalmist outlines several rewards that come from having a genuine fear of the Lord:
You will enjoy the fruits of your labor (success). Psalm 128:2
You will experience happiness (joy). Psalm 128:2b
It will be well with you (overall wellness). Psalm 128:2
Your spouse will be fruitful (prosperity). Psalm 128:3
Your children will be like olive plants (symbolizing abundance). Psalm 128:3b
You will be blessed. Psalm 128:4
You will witness the prosperity of your nation. Psalm 128:5
You will enjoy the good of your country. Psalm 128:5b
You will live long enough to see your grandchildren (longevity). Psalm 128:6
You will experience peace. Psalm 128:6b
These blessings are available to those who choose to walk in God's ways.
What is the Way of the Lord?
The way of the Lord is essentially the teachings and principles found in the Word of God. Walking in His way means living in obedience to His commands. The Bible describes God’s Word as a guiding light:
Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path. Psalm 119:105
God's way is the only path that leads to a fulfilling life filled with joy, peace, and prosperity. The Bible warns us that there are paths that may seem right to us but ultimately lead to destruction:
There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death. Proverbs 14:12
The Word of God serves as our manual for life, guiding us through every situation. It reveals God’s purpose for our lives, assuring us that His plans are always for our good:
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11
How to Walk in His Way
Walking in God's way requires obedience, which stems from faith and trust in Him. Here are some practical steps to help you walk in His way:
Develop a Relationship with God
Surrender to God’s authority in your life. You cannot hear from God without knowing Him. Spend time reading the Bible, memorizing verses, and meditating on His Word.
Have a Deep Reverence for God
When you truly respect God and His authority, you will be more inclined to listen to His voice. This reverence leads to loyalty and obedience.
Build Your Faith and Trust in the Lord
Without faith, it is impossible to please God. Trust in His goodness and sovereignty by regularly reading the Bible, listening to sermons, and engaging with fellow believers.
Pray and Fast to Seek His Guidance
Use prayer as a means of communicating with God. Fasting can help you become more spiritually attuned to His voice.
Remember, there are eternal rewards for living in obedience to God’s Word. Just as Jesus humbled Himself in obedience and received a great reward, we too can look forward to heavenly rewards:
8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth. Philippians 2:8-10
In the book of Revelation, Jesus promises that He will return with rewards for those who fear the Lord and obey His commands:
12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. 13 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. 14 Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. Revelation 22: 12-14
By following God’s ways, you will experience both earthly and heavenly rewards. Living a life of obedience brings countless blessings.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word and the grace You have shown in my life. I ask for the strength to walk in Your ways and to fulfil Your will in every area of my life. Help me to surrender completely to Your will, in Jesus' name. Amen.
Reference:
The Holy Bible, KJV
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