Biblical Answer

The concept of fear in the Bible is often misunderstood, as the English word "fear" conveys the idea of fright and dread. However, in the Old Testament, the term "the fear of the Lord" is very common, and it refers to a sense of awe and respect for God's greatness and righteousness. When we keep the Lord's commandments, we demonstrate our fear of Him, and this is the beginning of knowledge (Prov. 1:7). The fear of the Lord leaves no room for fear of anything or anyone else, and it is a response of our entire being.

The fear of the Lord is not just a intellectual understanding, but a deep-seated reverence for God's power and justice. It is an attitude that recognizes God's greatness and righteousness, and it is a necessary ingredient in right living. The Bible teaches that those who fear the Lord will avoid evil (Prov. 15:33), and that the fear of the Lord leads to life (Prov. 19:23). Psalm 34:9 says, "Fear the Lord, you his saints, for those who fear him lack nothing." This means that those who fear the Lord will be blessed and will not lack anything.

The Bible encourages us to fear the Lord, and to deal with our fears by trusting in Him. Exodus 14:31 says, "And when Israel saw the mighty hand that the Lord used against the Egyptians, they feared the Lord and put their trust in Him." This means that when we see God's power and goodness, we should fear Him and trust in Him. We should not be afraid of anything else, but rather put our trust in God's goodness and power. This is the kind of fear that is necessary for right living, and it is the kind of fear that will bring us blessing and protection.