The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life. (Proverbs 14:27)

The fear of the Lord adds length to life. (Proverbs 10:27)

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. (Proverbs 1:7)

The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them. (Psalm 34:7)

I was blessed to have a dad who I respected so much that I never wanted to disappoint him. Just the thought of his look of disapproval was enough to stop me in my tracks when I was tempted to disobey. When my mom made bread (which was often), she would give me a small piece of dough. With it I would make tiny cinnamon rolls with my toy utensils just for Dad. Pleasing him gave me such delight. I wanted to give him something exceptional. I remember once discovering an extra small banana in the bunch; of course I insisted that we set that one aside for Dad. Dear, sweet Dad. I didn’t know it, but I was being groomed for an understanding of the fear of the Lord. It was simply this: longing to please and honor my Father, desiring to see his sweet smile when I handed him his little gift; imperfect as it was, he always received it with the greatest pleasure. Imperfect as you and I are, God always receives us with joy.

Father,

I long to understand the secret to fearing you. This concept has been twisted and distorted, indicating that you are a dominating tyrant that makes our hearts tremble.  I reject this false notion, and I believe the truth: that you are a Father who loves His children. I receive Your love today, and I choose to maintain a heart that fears you – giving you reverence, avoiding at all costs doing anything that would cause you pain, and enjoying your love, provision, and protection every day of my life.

Amen