Fear of the Lord
In our society we often hear about living the American Dream. The idea of having it all, being successful and happy. The reality is that none of that is what will bring real happiness and peace.
Material things bring joy for a while, but that fades and more is desired. Relationships are wonderful and can bring a sense of fulfillment at times, but expectations change and people are human.
Abigail found what really matters and what will last, the fear of the Lord. What does it mean as a believer to fear the Lord? Fearing the Lord means having such a reverence for Him that it has a great impact on the way we live our lives. The fear of the Lord is respecting Him, obeying Him, submitting to His discipline, and worshipping Him in awe. (Gotquestions.org)
Proverbs 1:7 declares, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge.” Until we understand who God is and develop a reverential fear of Him, we cannot have true wisdom. True wisdom comes only from understanding who God is and that He is holy, just, and righteous.
As believers we have no reason to be afraid of Him. We have His promise that nothing can separate us from His love (Romans 8:38-39) and we have His promise that He will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).
Fearing the Lord allows us to have peace because we are trusting and believing God for the outcome. We can rest in His peace and power knowing He will take care of the situation. Philippians 4:7 reminds us that the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Abigail feared the Lord more that she feared her surly husband Nabal or David and his men. Fearing the Lord minimizes our fear of those who have the potential to harm us. (Lucado)
Because Abigail’s fear was in the Lord and not man, she had the wisdom to handle the challenges she faced. She boldly approached an angry army and displayed humility as she spoke words of truth. Later she used discretion as she waited for the right moment to speak to a drunk and arrogant husband. The Lord took care of both situations and gave Abigail His peace.
She knew the Lord and respected and obeyed Him while trusting Him for strength to be bold and for wisdom to be patient. God provided everything she needed and blessed her with His peace.
My Prayer
Father, thank you that You are God. A relationship with You is worth more than anything in this world. I want to know You more. I want to be confident in Your power and live boldly for You. Refine me Lord and help me to humbly submit to Your leading in my life. I know it will bring many moments of awe and wonder. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Where does my help come from?
Deuteronomy 10:12-13
“And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the Lord’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good.”