Understanding the Fear of the Lord

The phrase "the fear of the Lord" resonates deeply within the context of personal success and spiritual fulfillment. Often misinterpreted as merely being afraid, this profound concept embodies respect, reverence, and awe for God's majesty. For women striving for personal achievements and societal recognition, embracing this fear transforms their journey because it gives us the power of submission and the willingness to obey God. It serves as a foundation, fueling 0ur godly desires and aligning us with a greater knowledge of who we are in Christ and the great God that we follow.

A Woman Who Fears the Lord

Proverbs 31:30 articulates that "a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." This statement encapsulates the essence of true success for us as women. It implies that we have reverence for God which shapes our character, actions, and her witness. When we prioritizes our relationship with the Lord, God cultivates fruits of the spirit such as integrity, kindness, and wisdom within us. These traits not only enrich our lives, but spread the love of God to others from the abundance and overflow of our hearts building fellowship and community.

The Rewards of Embracing Divine Fear

The rewards for those who embody the fear of the Lord are immense. Firstly, it fosters a deep-seated sense of peace, joy, and purpose as we trust in God (Romans 15:13). We hunger after God to glorify him (1 Corinthians 10:23-33). When we are anchored in our faith we have access to God's clarity for our steps because we know they are ordered by God (Psalm 37:23). This clarity enables us to overcome obstacles and live a more fearless life for God, not for ourself. Furthermore, divine favor is evident in the fruit of our life (Galatians 5:22-23). More of God in our hearts and lives is our success.

Moreover, pleasing God through humility and daily repentance gives us greater opportunity to be a witness to others and to share the Gospel. When those around us witness our steadfast love and commitment to our faith, they can see evidence of the work of the Lord in our lives, and be inspired and supported. Because others can recognize the truth of God in our lives, beyond mere worldly accomplishments, but see our ruling character.

Search me, God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.

Psalm 139:23-24 NIV

In summary, the powerful phrase "the fear of the Lord" is more than mere religious rhetoric. And it is not about the types of fear we are so used to experiencing (i.e., will they accept me, am I enough, can I do it, will I be successful, am I enough....). It it not fear of man, but it does encapsulates the core true personal success - an abiding love of Christ and following in humility and obedience (John 15:4-7) what he calls us to do in The Word of God daily (John 14:15). Ultimately, the fear of the Lord stands as the door to wisdom (Proverbs 1:7) our path to truth and love that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7) as we devote ourselves of Jesus followers.

Meditate on Proverbs 31:10-31

New International Version

Epilogue: The Wife of Noble Character

10 A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
11 Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.
12 She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.
13 She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.
14 She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.
15 She gets up while it is still night;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her female servants.
16 She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
17 She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.
18 She sees that her trading is profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.
19 In her hand she holds the distaff
and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
20 She opens her arms to the poor
and extends her hands to the needy.
21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household;
for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
22 She makes coverings for her bed;
she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is respected at the city gate,
where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them,
and supplies the merchants with sashes.
25 She is clothed with strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.
26 She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
27 She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
29 “Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all.”
30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
31 Honor her for all that her hands have done,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.