We might have fear at the thought of causing offense, or of losing our relationship with God or with anyone we trust. Usually, we fear those who can harm us or we fear suffering and pain, but we do not fear those we love or those who love us. “Fear”

1. is the natural consequence of sin (Gen. 3:10; 4:13-14; Prov. 28:1);
2. comes as a punishment (Deut. 28:25,28).

This is the fear that has torment, an emotion prompted by a threat of retribution.

The fear of man and of evils are dangers to be avoided, from which the fear of God delivers (Num. 14:9; 21:34; Psa. 23:4; 31:14).
 
People then ask, what is the fear of God? Is the fear of God reverence? What is the meaning of reverence and fear of God? 

When we revere God, or any other person, we think very highly of him or her.

Fearing the Lord means to be in reverent awe of His holiness, to give Him complete reverence and to honor Him as the God of great glory, majesty, purity, and power.—OliveTree

To have reverence and fear of God is to express deep sense of adoration, awe, and honor to God in recognition of His holiness, sovereignty, and love.—CRFV

The fear of God centers on worshipful admiration, appreciation and obedience. It is a wonder, awe, delight, pleasure, and warm approval of all He is in His Person.— BibleStudyTools

It makes someone stay on the side of righteousness all the time, as it causes a person to accurately obey the will of God.—CRFV

For those who have reverential fear, Jesus says, Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom (Lk. 12:32). Interestingly, the phrase “fear not” appears 365 times in scripture, one phrase for each day. Thus reverence is a form of fear, but the healthy form of it, and that is what the believer must have.

The other fear is a cringing or hostile fear, the unhealthy type that is the anticipated retribution for evil done or of sin unrepented of (Rom. 13:3,4; 1 John 4:18).

For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: for he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Romans 13:3-4

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. 1 John 4:18

Are you living in fear? Then you need to take a look at your walk with God. This is the time to straighten your walk. Don’t miss the sealing of the Holy Spirit. Time no longer. Shalom.

Pastor Afolabi Oladele