Why Some Fear God Instead of Loving Him
Throughout the history recorded in the Bible, fear and love of God have played significant roles. Many individuals, particularly in the Old Testament, seem to fear God more than they love Him. This fear was often driven by God's powerful demonstrations of His might, as seen in various incidents like the plagues and the aftermath of the departure from Egypt in the Exodus. However, the fear of the LORD is portrayed as a foundational aspect of true wisdom and obedience. So why is this fear present among some believers instead of love?
God's Power and Majesty
According to the Bible, God’s actions and attributes should inspire a sense of fear. His powerful deeds, such as delivering the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, are meant to teach the lesson that His hand is powerful and His fear should motivate one’s own reverence. For instance, the verse 'And now Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God to walk in obedience to him to love him to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul' underscores the importance of fearing God out of respect and to remain obedient.
Consequences and Generational Impact
The fear of the LORD is not just an individual matter but extends to future generations. In Exodus 34:7, God states, 'I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations. I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. But I do not excuse the guilty. I lay the sins of the parents upon their children and grandchildren; the entire family is affected – even children in the third and fourth generations.' This passage emphasizes that the impact of one's actions, particularly fear and reverence of God, can outlive them and affect future generations. Thus, fearing God out of respect and reverence also involves considering the future well-being of one's descendants.
Theological Perspective on Fear and Love
The Bible demonstrates that true wisdom and understanding come from fearing the LORD. For example, Solomon states in Job 28:28, 'The fear of the LORD - that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding.' Fearing God is more than just being afraid; it involves a deeper respect and reverence that leads to living a life that honors His will. This fear is not about dread or terror but about a profound awe and respect.
However, fear can sometimes manifest as fear of divine punishment or consequences, rather than a reflection of love and respect. When fear is rooted in dread of divine wrath, it can hinder the development of a loving relationship with God. This fear is not commendable in the Bible. Instead, the Bible encourages a faith that celebrates the goodness of God and the love that He has for His people. The psalmist writes, 'Oh that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands always so that it might go well with them and their children forever' (Psalm 63:1).
Practical Application
Fearing God in a positive sense means seeking to understand His character and willingly obeying His commands. It involves listening to Him and seeking wisdom from Him (Proverbs 1:7). This kind of fear is a healthy respect for the divine authority and a proactive engagement with God's will. It encourages a life of obedience and love, where one's actions and decisions align with God's purposes and values.
On the other hand, fearing God out of dread can lead to a rigid and fearful lifestyle, where people are overly concerned with avoiding punishment rather than engaging with God's love and provision. This fear can intimidate and push people away from God rather than drawing them closer. True love of God, therefore, involves a balance of respect and reverence with trust and confidence in God's redeeming power and love.
Ultimately, while the fear of the LORD is grounding and necessary, it is the love of God that truly fulfills and transforms a believer's life. Love is the fulfillment of the law, as Romans 13:10 states, 'Love is the fulfillment of the law.' It is the love of God that compels us to seek His will and to obey His commands out of a heart of gratitude and trust.
In conclusion, the fear of God is a critical aspect of one's relationship with Him, but it should be rooted in love and reverence. Understanding this balance can lead to a more meaningful and fulfilling relationship with God, where one's actions are guided by respect and obedience but also by a profound love for God.