A Heart That Fears God
Sunday, October 18
Luke 23:40–43 (NKJV)
“But the other responded, and rebuking him, said, “Do you not even fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Devotion
The story of the thief on the cross is a powerful reminder that it is never too late for a heart to turn toward God. In his final moments, this man had nothing to offer Jesus—no good works to present, no time to make things right with those he had wronged, and no opportunity to rebuild his reputation. He was a sinner facing the consequences of his actions. Yet, in the midst of his punishment, something remarkable became evident: he feared God.
While the other criminal mocked Jesus, this man rebuked him, acknowledging that they were receiving the due reward for their deeds while Jesus had done nothing wrong. His question, “Do you not even fear God?” revealed a heart that recognized the holiness and authority of God, even while hanging on a cross beside a dying Savior.
The fear of God is more than being afraid of punishment. It is a reverent recognition of who God is that changes how a person responds to Him. This thief did not excuse his sin, deny his guilt, or demand that Jesus prove Himself. He acknowledged his wrongdoing, recognized Jesus’ innocence, and believed that Jesus was a King whose kingdom extended beyond the grave. His request was simple: “Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom” (Luke 23:42, KJV).
And Jesus answered with a promise beyond anything the man could have imagined: “To day shalt thou be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43, KJV).
Oh what amazing grace! The thief was not saved because his fear of God earned him salvation. He was saved by the grace of Jesus, received through faith. Yet his response revealed a heart humbled before God—a heart willing to acknowledge sin, recognize Jesus for who He was, and entrust his eternity to Him.
May there be a fresh dose of the fear of God—not simply a fear of consequences, but a deep reverence that transforms the heart and draws it closer to Jesus.
Today's Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the mercy and grace revealed through Jesus Christ. Give me a fresh reverence for Your holiness and help me never to take Your grace for granted. Search my heart and lead me to genuine repentance wherever I have excused or overlooked sin. Teach me to respond to You with humility, obedience, and faith. Like the thief on the cross, may I recognize who Jesus is and place my trust completely in Him. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Apply It Today
Approach Jesus with a humble heart. Like the thief on the cross, acknowledge your need for His mercy and place your trust in Him. Let your reverence for God shape how you live each day.
Resources
- Every day, we make choices about whom we will follow and serve. Watch “Which Team Are You On?” and be encouraged to examine your heart and make sure your life reflects your allegiance to God!
- Make Sunday a day to encounter God! Join us this morning at 9 & 11 AM for powerful worship and a life-changing word at a Free Chapel campus near you—or join us online. Come expecting God to move!