"The Lord’s delight is in those who fear him,
those who put their hope in his unfailing love." Psalm 147:11 NLT
There are two words in the above passage that seem conflicting--fear and love.
The writer says that the Lord delights in those who fear Him. Does that mean that He delights in our being terrified of Him? Is he like an abusive father that likes watching his children move about the house in fear of abuse? Certainly not!
Yes, we should fear God. After all, He is God. But the fear of the Lord is out of a reverent respect and honor of our father in heaven. He is awesome beyond description. He is a just God. He does come against the wicked. But He tempers judgment with mercy. He tempered our judgment with mercy at the cross of Christ.
Our father loves us. His love is complete and without prejudice. This is why we can fear and love Him at the same time.
It seems like we make the mistake in one of two warped views of God. He is either a God of judgment just waiting to inflict pain on us. Or the other, which is that He is a kind, toothless old man who is our sugar daddy. Both views are incorrect.
We are to have a reverent fear of the Lord, and complete confidence in His great love for us.
Which track are you riding on?
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