A sense of wonder

The Lord is a friend to those who fear him. He teaches them his covenant. My eyes are always on the Lord, for he rescues me from the traps of my enemies. (Psalm 25:14-15)

Fear him - does this mean we stand trembling, always trying to do more and more in order to feel 'accepted' in order to 'get into his presence'? No, it means we pay him the respect and honor due him as the Creator of the universe and the Lord of Lords. The Hebrew term for 'fear the Lord' is 'yirah', carrying a very significant picture of the RELATIONSHIP we have with God. The term describes the profound sense of awe, reverence, and respect when encountered with something or someone greater than yourself. It is the sense of being face-to-face with the incomprehensible majesty of God.

It describes an emotional response. One that encompasses a sense of wonder (awe), while also giving a great amount of respect and honor because of his holiness and power. One who fears God is humble, recognizing that there are 'limitations' in one's own abilities, especially when considering the abilities of the God we face. It is not terror or fright put forth as instruction here, but rather the emotional response that leaves us 'undone' in the presence of God's greatness.

God's children are called to worship him, live obediently before him, and trust him with all of their lives. Truly, this is the meaning of 'fearing God'. In teaching us his covenant (his promises), he gives us hope. In constantly watching over our lives, he asks for us to watch him closely, never letting our eyes drift from his face. In other words, we let him lead us in our everyday lives. In so doing, we are assured of his protection and provision.

The Lord is a friend to those who fear him. This suggests relationship, not religion. Those who set their eyes of Jesus as the author and finisher of their faith will never be content to merely proclaim themselves as Christian. Their lives will manifest the significance of this relationship they enjoy with their Creator! They will be living examples of his grace and goodness. When we 'yirah' God, we aren't declaring a denomination or religious practice - we are revealing a depth of intimate, connected relationship with one who cares deeply for his creation. Just sayin!