Resources/Articles
The Influence of the Fear of God Upon Our Devotion
Are you getting better? Is your faith stronger? Has your moral conduct improved? The answers to these questions tell us about our relationships with God, and how the fear of God should be influencing us toward better lives and greater service. The fact is, we do not loaf around after we are converted to the Lord. After the conversion of hundreds of people in Galilee, Judea, and Samaria, these individuals “...had peace, being edified, and walking in the fear of the Lord” (Acts 9:31). When the word “walk” or “walking” is used in the New Testament, it always involves a way of living. We have a choice of walking “in darkness” or “in the light”, but we are steadily encouraged to choose the latter, because “walking in the light” is the only way that is “worthy” (Ephesians 4:1). It is imperative that every Christian permit his “walk” to be influenced by the fear of God (1 Peter 1:7).
There are several responsibilities we have in the world where we may not be in the presence of Christians, but where God knows if we are faithful because we fear Him.
Responsibility as a Citizen
“Be subject to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether to the king as supreme; or unto governors...For so is the will of God” (1 Peter 2:13-15). What country and community would not be pleased to have citizens who demonstrated the character of honesty and respect for law? For peace, justice, and liberty to continue in America, Christians must be prayerful and active in providing a character before the world worthy of imitating and handing down to the next generation. Those who see this as their responsibility in the world will not throw up their hands and quit. They will always abound in the work of the Lord in respect toward those in authority and whether laws are in place which favor Christianity or not.
Responsibility to Family
Nearly every husband, wife, parent, and child should want to better themselves. That is especially true with those who fear God, because they know the greatest thing in life is serving Him. This means husbands must accept the role of spiritual leadership and headship. Wives need to see the value of submission and meekness. Parents must live by and instill in their children the building blocks of spiritual growth (Galatians 5:22,23; 2 Peter 1:5-7). Children must accept the role of obedience and respect for those in control of their lives and well-being. Every responsibility in the home needs immediate attention. Without respect to what role we have in the family, the next generation fails to see the need to respect the influence that God can have on their lives.
Responsibility Toward Temptation
God knows temptation lies before us every day. That is why He has provided a way of escape (1 Corinthians 10:13). How often do you avail yourself of the door that keeps you out of trouble? Rather than seeing how close you can get without going over the line - “Flee” - stay clear (1 Timothy 6:11). Understand temptations best work is flattering and flirting. Its promises satisfy temporarily. It brings consequences that may last not only a lifetime, but an eternity. It is the fear of God that helps us stay clear and see temptation as it really is. We can steer clear of temptation when we learn to work out our own salvation with fear (Philippians 2:12). Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with God (Romans 12:21; 1 Peter 1:12).
