Psalm 111:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom;
all who follow his precepts have good understanding.
To him belongs eternal praise.

This verse explains why there is so much totally absurd, even insane stuff in the world today: too many people don’t fear God. With no fear of God, there is no foundation for anything else. Facts may be ascertained, but there is no framework to relate those facts to each other. That’s another way of saying that there’s a big difference between knowledge and wisdom. Even if you have all the facts, which in itself is highly unlikely, without the fear of God they won’t lead you to the right conclusion. The NIV for this verse adds words to make it seem more “sensible” to us, but the Japanese says, “those who do this gain good understanding.” The thing is, rightly fearing God produces action; it isn’t just theoretical. If we genuinely fear God, then our lives will be ordered in such a way as to please Him. We can say we believe in God all we like, but our lives will show whether it’s true or not. As Jesus said, “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and don’t do what I say?” (Luke 6:46) When we recognize that God is the reason for everything, it has a major impact on our lives! One problem is that contemporary Christianity has emphasized the love and grace of God to the point of de-emphasizing His holiness and justice. Many people scoff at the very idea of a Final Judgment, so they indeed have no fear of God, and so act very foolishly. The only way anyone can stand in that last judgment is to be in Christ Jesus by faith. This is hardly a casual thing, and a proper fear of God will cause us to seek to deepen our relationship with Christ daily.

That said, there’s a difference between the fear of God and terror. Terror paralyzes, rather than provoking to action. If I were to paint a picture of a mean, vengeful God, I would be a terrorist! (It just occurred to me that Islam says that God is capricious, and no one can be sure they are going to “paradise” unless they are killed in a “holy war.” That’s why Islam produces so many terrorists!) I am to proclaim the love, grace, and faithfulness of God along with His holiness and justice, helping people understand how their attitudes and actions have set them on the road to destruction, but that God has provided a way out through His Son.

Father, as usual, this is a task that is beyond my ability, so I ask You to do it through me. I cannot convict of sin, righteousness and judgment except Your Spirit do it through me. (John 16:8-11) I ask that the eyes of many be opened so that they may fear You rightly, clinging to Christ Jesus in love and obedience, so that all of Your plans for them may be fulfilled, for their blessing and Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!