Shortgrass
Well-known member
My 6 year old nephew was out last week to see the calves. He is very afraid of dogs. Our "Sunday" dog loves children and wanted very much for Brandon to pet her, but fear paralyzed the little boy. Fear can be a very negative force in some situations. God tell His followers to "fear not" in many situations. Yet He advises us to "fear God" from Genesis to Revelation. Many people say that it does not mean to fear God, rather to respect Him. Most all translations, even the more modern ones use the word fear. I think that means we are to fear God. Let me illustrate. I was at one time a very rebellious child of God. I would rebel against His word and wishes, and He would bring me to time. After all, Who the Lord loveth He chasteneth. I would walk with Him for a time, but then rebel again. The last incident He used to bring me to time was a fire. I was badly burned. I lived in pain for several weeks, but healed quickly and "miraculously" according to doctors and nurses. I decided then and there that He would never have to tap me on the shoulder again. I may fail my Lord, and often do, but I shall never rebel against Him again. I am afraid to. I found God, I was on my back, and He was standing in the middle of my chest with both feet! I want to please Him because I respect Him, love Him, and do not want to grieve Him, but still I fear to openly rebel against Him. I loved and respected my earthly father; we were best of friends, but there was an element of fear that kept me from getting crossway with him. Fear can keep us near Him, and lead us in obedience. When Sunday gets afraid of thunder or something, she comes to me. Fear is a motivator, or a stop sign. The one thing I believe God teaches is that if we fear God, we need fear nothing nor any person. Have a good Sunday mornin', and spend some time ponderin' the meaning of Fear the Lord this week.
