Readings in Proverbs
Proverbs – Day 35
Day 35: The fear of the LORD – part 2 We tend to think that we are right all the time, but it is the LORD who weighs our actions […]
Day 35: The fear of the LORD – part 2
We tend to think that we are right all the time, but it is the LORD who weighs our actions and motives (Prov. 16:2). He tests our hearts like the crucible testing the purity of gold (Prov. 17:3).
These proverbs tell us to commit all that we do to the LORD (Prov. 16:3). That means submitting ourselves to Him, in order to seek His will and all that would honour Him in every situation. Earlier in Proverbs we are told: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths (Prov. 3:5-6).” Such submission brings peace of mind to us as well.
The fear of the LORD does not drain us of life, but gives us life! Every Christian will be able to testify to the rest that comes from fearing the LORD (Prov. 19:23). This day may we turn away from our own thinking and commit our ways to Him.
The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honour.
– Prov. 15:33
All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit.
– Prov. 16:2
Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.
– Prov. 16:3
By steadfast love and faithfulness iniquity is atoned for, and by the fear of the Lord one turns away from evil.
– Prov. 16:6
Whoever gives thought to the word will discover good, and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord.
– Prov. 16:20
The crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold, and the Lord tests hearts.
– Prov. 17:3
When a man’s folly brings his way to ruin, his heart rages against the Lord.
– Prov. 19:3
Whoever keeps the commandment keeps his life; he who despises his ways will die.
– Prov. 19:16
The fear of the Lord leads to life, and whoever has it rests satisfied; he will not be visited by harm.
– Prov. 19:23
O God, the fear of You must be with our whole heart. We pray for faithfulness and obedience to You from a heart of reverence.
Foolishness will bring us to ruin and it often leaves us bitter against You. But may we never be hardened and put up our defences against You. Let bitterness never take root within us. May we be soft towards You, O Great God.
The Bible says that the fear of the LORD is clean. In a world that changes and will wither like the grass, we thank You that the fear of You is eternal.
In Jesus’ Name we pray,
Amen.
– Graham Barnes
