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The Fear of the Lord – Austin Miller
June 16, 2024

The Fear of the Lord – Austin Miller

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Passage: Proverbs
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Embracing the Fear of the Lord: A Journey Through Proverbs
Good morning! Today, I come to you in the precious name of Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. As I prepare to share this message, I want to express a feeling that has lingered since my ordination three years ago: a sense of inadequacy. Whether as a teacher, preacher, or leader in the church, I often feel unqualified. However, it’s essential to shift that focus back to God and recognize His leading.
Seeking Clarity Through Prayer
Recently, during a prayer meeting, I found myself struggling with what to preach. But through prayer, God provided clarity, and I became excited about sharing His Word. I initially planned to discuss a message based on Genesis 14 and Matthew 14, but as I delved deeper, I felt compelled to explore the theme of “the fear of the Lord” as it appears in Proverbs.
The Symbolism of Numbers
In my studies, I stumbled upon an interesting connection between the number 14 and the concept of salvation. Biblically, the number 14 symbolizes “double perfection” (7+7). It suggests a completeness that relates to salvation, which led me to examine how the fear of the Lord is referenced 14 times in Proverbs. This discovery ignited a passion within me to explore these verses further.
The Wisdom of Proverbs
Proverbs is rich in wisdom, offering guidance on how to posture ourselves as followers of God. I was eager to dive into these scriptures and share insights, so let’s explore some key verses together.
Proverbs 1:7
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
This verse defines the fear of the Lord as respect, obedience, and worship of the one true God. It emphasizes that true knowledge begins with acknowledging God’s authority.
The Importance of Context
As we explore Proverbs, it’s vital to consider the context surrounding each verse. For instance, Proverbs 1:28-33 warns of the consequences of ignoring wisdom and the fear of the Lord. It states that those who reject knowledge will ultimately reap the consequences of their choices.
Understanding the Fear of the Lord
Proverbs 2:5 reveals a profound truth:
“Then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.”
This passage reiterates that knowledge and wisdom are gifts from God, available to those who seek Him earnestly.
The Connection Between Fear and Life
Proverbs 10:27 states:
“The fear of the Lord prolongs life, but the years of the wicked will be short.”
This raises an important question: Is a longer life a sign of God’s blessing? Or could it be that living in the fear of the Lord naturally leads to healthier choices and less stress?
Confidence in the Fear of the Lord
Proverbs 14:26-27 offers reassurance:
“In the fear of the Lord, one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge. The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life that one may turn away from the snares of death.”
Living in the fear of the Lord fosters confidence and provides a safe haven for our children. When we respect, obey, and worship God, we can navigate life with assurance.
The Burden of Possessions
As we reflect on the fear of the Lord, it’s essential to consider our relationship with material possessions. The pursuit of wealth and treasures can often lead to stress and troubles.

A Personal Anecdote: I once purchased a small 14-foot boat for river trips, excited about the adventure it promised. However, I quickly learned that maintaining this possession came with unexpected burdens—upkeep, repairs, and worries about damage. This experience made me realize that having fewer possessions, coupled with a healthy fear of the Lord, is far more fulfilling than being weighed down by material concerns.

The Wisdom of Humility
Proverbs 15:33 states:
“The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor.”
This profound truth reminds us that true honor is rooted in humility. As we pursue knowledge and honor in our lives, we must do so with a humble heart, recognizing that pride will only lead us astray.
Turning from Evil
Proverbs 16:6 tells us:
“By steadfast love and faithfulness, iniquity is atoned for, and by the fear of the Lord, one turns away from evil.”
This verse emphasizes that it is only through the fear of the Lord that we can turn from evil and cultivate a life of righteousness.
The Path to Life
The beauty of the fear of the Lord is that it doesn’t just lead us away from evil; it also guides us toward life. Proverbs 19:23 states:
“The fear of the Lord leads to life, and whoever has it rests satisfied; he will not be visited by harm.”
Embracing this fear means prioritizing our relationship with God over material desires, leading to true satisfaction and peace.
Conclusion: Choosing the Fear of the Lord
In closing, let’s remember that the fear of the Lord is not merely a concept but a way of life that leads to wisdom, understanding, and ultimately, a fulfilling relationship with God.

As we continue to explore Proverbs, I encourage you to meditate on these verses and allow God’s wisdom to guide your path.

By embracing the fear of the Lord, we can cultivate a life marked by confidence, wisdom, and a deeper relationship with our Creator. Let’s commit to seeking Him wholeheartedly, knowing that through His Word, we find the guidance we need.

May you be blessed and encouraged this week as you navigate your daily tasks, always seeking to respect, obey, and worship God above all else.

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