Fear of the Lord

What is the fear of the Lord?
Is it the fear that comes out of guilt
that we would be punished by the wrath of God?
Or is it like the fear of a ruthless dictator
or a merciless evil king?

Is it the kind the thief gets when  caught red handed
and put in front of a stern judge?
Or is it the fear that a murderer faces
when the jury is about to read out the verdict?

Surely, these kinds of fear are horrifying
knee-knocking, throat parching, palm sweating
heart pounding and head swirling.
Well, does the Bible talk about this kind of fear
when it mention, "The Fear of the Lord"?
I do not think so.

In no way, we are worthy to stand before God Almighty
Who is holy, just and full of righteousness.
Our knees will surely bend, heads will bow
and our hearts will tremble before Him.
Yet, it's not because of a scare or a threat
but it's out of the fear that springs from awe and reverence instead

Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom
Fear of the Lord brings knowledge and understanding
Fear of the Lord is a treasure to those who trust in God
Fear of the Lord is a beacon to guide you in the path of life!

(May 31, 2005)