Living in Fear of God

Webster defines 'fear' as the 'distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, or pain.' Who or what we fear control what we do in life. As believers in Jesus Christ we are to 'conduct ourselves in fear.' Fear of who or what? Many today live in the fear of man. What others think or do controls them. But the fear of man is a trap for it does not produce the intended results. As believers we are to live in the fear of the Lord. Theologians define it as 'reverential trust or awe.' But is the fear of the Lord more than that? Have we taken the fear out of the fear of the Lord? Peter says we shouuld be a little bit of afraid of God for two reasons. First,, as our heavenly Father who loves us He will also discipline us. He does so that we might partake in His holiness. And secondly, as an impartial judge, God will hold us accountable for our words and actions. One day we will give an account to the Lord for the things we've said and done. That in an d of itself should make us a little fearful. Not afraid of losing our salvation, but rather afraid of losing our rewards should move us to live in the fear of the Lord!