In my previous post I wrote about God as A Sure Foundation as stated in Isaiah 33:6,
“He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure.”
Today I want to address the final portion of this verse: “…the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure.”
The Bible has much to say about the fear of the Lord. Solomon tells us right off, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.” (Proverbs 1:7) He states it repeatedly throughout the book of Proverbs. Here are just a few:
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Proverbs 9:10
“The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.” Proverbs 14:27
“Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great wealth with turmoil.” Proverbs 15:16
“The fear of the LORD teaches a man wisdom, and humility comes before honor.” Proverbs 15:33
To fear the Lord is simply to have a reverent awe of Him. To recognize He is the One and Only true God. To know He is the creator and sustainer of all things, and to acknowledge that God is Righteous and His Way is perfect. Jesus said, “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Mt. 10:28)
To fear God is to be humble before Him and accept His Lordship in your life. The psalmist captures is like this:
“The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes. The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever. The ordinances of the LORD are sure and altogether righteous. They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb. By them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.” Psalm 19:7-11
To fear the Lord is to not only revere Him, but obey and follow the Lord. It is the key to the treasures of God. Solomon, the wisest man to ever live, after much seeking came to this understanding:
“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.” Ecclesiastes 12:13
What does “the fear of the Lord” mean to you?
