Mike’s Musings ….
Fear God – Keep His Commandments
Bible students are keenly aware of Solomon’s closing statement of Ecclesiastes. “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” (Ecclesiastes 12:13) Let’s add to this directive by quoting two New Testament passages. Peter said, “Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.” (1 Peter 2:17) The angel of God told John to write, “… Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.” (Revelation 14:7) There should be no question of the Christian’s responsibility to FEAR GOD!
Such “fear” is not a type of trepidation, but rather one of profound respect, awe, and honor, recognizing the omnipotence (all-powerful being) of Jehovah God. While it may well permit a trembling (Philippians 2:12), such trembling is part and partial to the respect we must have for His eternal might over all other powers.
Unfortunately, not all Christians accept this requirement – at least they don’t live as though they fear God. When their language betrays them (using words that are less than words of dignity and wholesomeness), and their activities are questionable for the righteous to engage in, observers have every right to ask, “Dost thou fear God?” Jesus reminded us, “By their fruits ye shall know them.”
No Christian should ever live in such a way as to make his/her life leave doubt as to their fear of God! Rather, our lives should be the epitome of souls guided by His word because of our fear of Him (Colossians 3:17). Brethren, how we live and move and have our continued being in this world is what influences non-believers to take note of God and His power over sin. No, not all will follow our righteous lives, and fear God, but are we not much better for teaching others righteously, than ignoring the commandment to fear God? I muse on that reality and remind myself that God sees all, hears all, and knows all. If that is true (and it is), then He knows whether I truly FEAR Him, or just say I do! Let’s be mindful that the BEST lessons in defense of truth and righteousness are lessons LIVED before others – not just spoken!