03
Jan '25
In the New Year with Good Fear
03
Jan '25
Introduction: Did you know that some fear is good? According to the Bible, we need to take some fear into the New Year. Like what?
Check out the writings of both Paul and Solomon under the inspiration of the Holy Ghost. Also, Jude mentions fear.
1. What did Paul mean when he wrote Philippians 2:12? – “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”
Reread that last phrase: “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” Greek scholars define the word “fear” as φόβος. It can mean terror, reverence, or respect. In this case, it is apparently used to mean the latter. In other words, as believers in Jesus Christ, we are to work “out” what God the Holy Spirit works “in”! By the way, he is not talking about working FOR your salvation; rather, he is saying because of your salvation, there should be some works. James says the same (James 2:14-25). Also, do not forget that one day we will have to give an account of our salvation—the process of sanctification; i.e., spiritual gifts.
2. What did Solomon mean when he wrote about the fear of God? (Proverbs 1:7) – “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
The Hebrew word “fear” is יִרְאָה, which similarly means reverence or awe. In summary, we do not need to necessarily be afraid of God, but we should certainly RESPECT and have a holy REVERENCE for Him! Do you have reverence for the God of the Bible?
3. What did Jude mean when he wrote about fear? (Jude 1:23) – “And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.”
The same word is used for “fear” as in Philippians 2. Here, it can mean the object or cause of fear, or even terror. Some suggest that in the context of “save others with fear,” it means with an anxious heart, being concerned lest we be defiled by the wickedness of those whom we are rescuing. In addition, any soul winner knows the awful consequence of rejecting Jesus Christ as God’s remedy for sin and going out into eternity lost forever, destined for the lake of fire! Do you experience a sense of godly fear when witnessing?
Conclusion: While some fear is negative, as we’ve discussed in this devotion, some fear is positive. Will you stop and pray for the “good” kind of FEAR in the NEW YEAR?
Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese