The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,
and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.
For by me your days will be multiplied,
and years will be added to your life.
If you are wise, you are wise for yourself;
if you scoff, you alone will bear it.
Proverbs 9:10-12
Here we find one of the many biblical references to “fearing” the Lord. These often make me bristle. I want to “love the Lord my God” as Jesus told us to in Matthew chapter 22. I want to be welcomed into the fellowship with my Creator that Adam and Eve first had when God came “walking in the Garden in the cool of the day.” But then Proverbs tells me “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.”
Even though I resist the opening line, I do want the knowledge of the Holy One that will multiply my days and make life worthwhile.
Maybe the word “fear” is better translated “revere.” Maybe the call is for me to “stand in awe of God.” Maybe I am to “respect” my Creator. Maybe I can “adore” God and cling to God’s Word …. and live.
Today and every day, dear God, I stand humbly in Your loving presence, eager to learn what You are ready to teach me. Amen.