Fear God

The wise fear God. They have a clear understanding who He is and what He has revealed throughout Scripture of Himself. 

Reverent Fear also called filial fear or holy fear, is central to the Christian life.

1. What it is not

You’re correct—it’s not the fear that’s your friend (like casual anxiety or human respect that makes God “nice” to you), and it’s not fear that’s your enemy (like paralyzing terror, despair, or avoidance of God).

• Not friendly fear: This is the kind of fear that makes God seem optional or just a cosmic buddy—you’re not truly oriented toward His holiness.

• Not fearful terror: This fear enslaves or paralyzes; it drives you away from God because of dread, shame, or panic.

2. What it is

The reverent fear of God is a holy awe and deep respect, rooted in the knowledge of God’s majesty, holiness, and justice, as well as His love and covenant mercy. It produces obedience and delight, not mere dread. It is a kind of spiritual wisdom:

• Fear as awe: You recognize God’s greatness and authority, responding with humility and worship.

• Fear as reverence: You live carefully, avoiding sin, because God’s presence and will are real and decisive in your life.

• Fear as love-informed obedience: You honor God, not out of terror alone, but because His glory and your relationship with Him matter.

3. Biblical grounding

Reformed theologians often cite verses like:

• Proverbs 9:10: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.”

• Psalm 111:10: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding.”

• Isaiah 6:1–5: Isaiah sees God’s holiness and is struck with awe and humility, not panic.

4. How it functions in the believer’s life

• Motivates obedience: You do God’s will out of awe, not coercion.

• Protects from sin: Fear keeps you mindful of God’s commands.

• Leads to joy: Proper fear deepens trust, because you know God is sovereign and good.

• Cultivates humility: You see yourself rightly in relation to God.

In short, the reverent fear of God is a God-centered awe: it is neither slavish terror nor casual familiarity. It’s a holy balance of love, respect, and obedience, rooted in the covenantal knowledge of God.

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Read the Bible for full clarity.

We can get a glimpse at the fact that those who know God do in fact have a reverent and proper fear of Him, and it is also a fililial love. 

A quick search brings these results:

Proverbs 8:13 

"The fear of the Lord, is to hate evil"

Do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell Matt. 10:28

Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe. Proverbs 29:25.

People need to have a proper understanding of Who God is, so they can have proper fear of Him. For the unsaved it's the dread and anticipation of judgment after death, for believers its reverential as their Creator, God and King, who loves (and as Father even chastises and corrects) them. 

Here are 3 Reasons to Fear God 

FAQ & more

What happened to the fear of God 

Is the fear of God good for the Church 

What does it mean to fear God 

Discussing more on what it means 

The fear that forfeits Christ

Salvation often begins by the fear of God 

Fear God with all your heart 

Believers growing in the fear of the Lord 

How to love, trust & fear God at the same time

Related 

A deep study on who God is. 

A short review of God's attributes  

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Do you know God? Do you understand the Gospel? Have you repented of sin and put your trust in Jesus, and follow Him? Are you growing in holiness day after day? Turn to God today. 

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<<< return to prev pg for More on understanding of and on having a proper Fear of God 

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