Let The Fear Of God Shape You

Saturday, October 17

1 Peter 2:17 (NKJV)

“Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.”

Devotion

King Saul had lost the fear of God. He was afraid of many things, but he was not afraid of God. When he saw David’s success, jealousy and hatred took root in his heart. The people sang, “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands.”

God gave the people of Israel a king because they asked for one. Saul had no formal training as a king, but he was anointed by Samuel. He was handsome and stood tall. Yet, despite his anointing and outward appearance, evil still infiltrated his heart. Only the fear of God can cause us to depart from evil.

The fear of God is an asset. A convicted spirit is a blessing. Even the thief who hung on a cross beside Jesus feared God.

So, what does that mean for us? In everything that you do, do it with the fear of the Lord in your mind. Come to God humbly in prayer, knowing that He is almighty and powerful. Our God is a God of second chances, but you have to repent. Turn away from the ways of the world and soften your heart. Proverbs 1:7 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge…” When you feel the Holy Spirit prick your heart with conviction, listen. We are called to love one another and treat everyone with respect. The Lord gives us mercy for our mistakes, but we cannot abuse that mercy.

When we honor God, we are separating ourselves from the world. But we have to remember to keep the fear of the Lord in our hearts so that we do not conform to the patterns of the world.

Today's Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

I come to You and bow my knees to Your Lordship. I proclaim Jesus as Lord of my life. You are the One I desire. Renew in me a clean and steadfast heart. I am Yours now and forever, and will spend the rest of my days in the presence of my King. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Apply It Today

Practice spending your days in His Presence, meaning be mindful of Him and His Word throughout each day, not just on Sundays. Take Him with you wherever you go. This honor and reverence of Him will separate you from the things of this world and prepare you for His coming.

Resources

• Discover what matters most! Watch “The Number One Responsibility Of Every Man” and be encouraged to live a life of faith, integrity, and purpose.

• Make the most of all that’s happening at Free Chapel! Check out our upcoming events and activities, discover what’s available for every age, and find something the whole family can enjoy. There’s a place for you! freechapel.org/events