How Could Fear Possibly Bring Blessings in Our Lives?

Mar 21

Mar 21 How Could Fear Possibly Bring Blessings in Our Lives?

Devos and Studies, Psalms Devos_Studies, God's Word

The Misunderstood Fear

The fear of God is one of the most misunderstood truths in the Bible—for believers and nonbelievers. Most people think of fear as a negative thing. But fear can have a useful, even beneficial, purpose. Being fearful of danger and avoiding it is wise.

So, why is the fear of God so often misunderstood? One primary reason is that it is very different from the fear of man. The fear of man tends to paralyze us, while the fear of God motivates us. Also, the fear of God brings the promise of blessings.

How can fear bring blessing? When it's the right type of fear. Psalm 128 speaks of the fear of God and declares the blessing it brings. How can the fear of God bring blessings?

It's a matter of priorities. When a person honors the Lord—realizing who He is and how powerful yet merciful He is—blessings will follow. God's blessings will follow in the life of a person with an honest and humble heart.

Keep this in mind as you read through Psalm 128 below.

Scripture

A song for going up to worship.

Blessed are all who fear the Lord and live his way.
You will certainly eat what your own hands have provided.
Blessings to you! May things go well for you!
Your wife will be like a fruitful vine inside your home.
Your children will be like young olive trees around your table. [vss 1-3]
This is how the Lord will bless the person who fears him.
May the Lord bless you from Zion so that you may see Jerusalem prospering all the days of your life.
May you live to see your children’s children. Let there be peace in Israel! [vss 4-6]

(Psalm 128:1-6 GW) [Context– Psalm 128]

Psalm 128

Reflections and Insights

The ending of the previous psalm is similar in focus to this one. It's one of a series of psalms sung by Jewish worshippers on their way to Jerusalem for one of the Jewish feasts. There were three feasts God called His people to attend each year—Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Booths (Leviticus 23).

As the people walked up the mountains surrounding Jerusalem, these songs (Songs of Ascent) were to be sung in sequence—Psalms 120–134. They reminded the people of the promises of their God, who He was to them, and of their national history.

This psalm is a declaration of truth. When we honor the Lord with a respectful, godly fear, His blessings will follow. God's blessings are like a river flowing out of heaven onto earth for those who live in the ways of the Lord.

Work and life will be fruitful and satisfying, flowing into a person's family and home life. Even the nation as a whole will be blessed.

Again, it's a matter of priorities. Respect and worship God, live according to the truth of His Word, and blessings will follow.

Reflection—

Are you experiencing the flow of God's blessings in your life? Are your priorities your own or do they honor the Lord above all else? Honor the Lord with your whole life so you can experience His favor flowing through it.

Prayer Focus—

When daily life seems difficult, reach out to the Lord in prayer. Ask Him to help you put your priorities in order, starting with Him as first priority, and ask for faith to trust Him for all your concerns and needs.

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