PERFECTING HOLINESS IN THE FEAR OF GOD

"Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God."  

2 Corinthians 7:1

The word "fear" has an evil connotation for most of us. We fear that bad things may happen to us. Some preachers have latched onto this feeling and found enthusiastic support for positive messages that say something like, "We have nothing to fear if we trust in Jesus." The only problem with that is that the Bible is full of warnings to all men, including the saints of God, that we must serve our God with fear and trembling.  Fear of what? The wrath of God if we depart from serving Him! Let us be honest with the Word of God and search out this question as carefully as we can.

In the Proverbs, the “fear of the LORD” is mentioned at least 15 times. According to the wise, it is the only source of wisdom, knowledge, discretion, prudence, truthfulness, and righteousness. The fear of God enables us to live a godly and holy life in a sinful world.  So, what is wisdom?  It is the discernment of everything from God's viewpoint.  What is understanding?  It is the ability to respond according to God's Word.  

"The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death."    (Proverbs 14:27)  

Godliness in the Bible is literally the fear of God and the devotion that grows out of that fear. The proverb says, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge." (Proverbs 1:7)  The fear of God is a fountain of life!  The one who fears God can sleep peacefully because he knows that evil will not touch him, for the LORD encamps around those who fear Him.  Jesus teaches us the fear of God by describing a place of everlasting punishment called hell. The fear of God is clean (Psalm 19:9). There is nothing evil about fearing God.  The fear of the LORD is the key that unlocks the door to the treasure house of God.  This "key" unlocks the haven of God's blessings.  

The word "fear" appears in the Bible 367 times.  In many of these instances, it is expounding on "the fear of the LORD" and its connection to wisdom (cf. Job 28:28; Psalm 111:10; Proverbs 1:7). In both the Old and New Testaments, God commands His creation to fear Him (Leviticus 25:17; Deut. 6:13; Matt. 10:28, for example).  It is important to stress that God's "mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation."  (Luke 1:50)  The Bible speaks of those who fear God, His name, His Law, and His Word.  The Old Testament mentions the fear of God at least 235 times. In the New Testament, we find at least 43 references to the fear of the LORD, which, by the way, is the same number of references to man's love for God.  From Genesis to Revelation, the Scriptures proclaim the fear of God as a fountain of life.  And those who drink deeply of it will receive the blessings of God in this life and in the life to come.  However, those who reject the fear of God will wind up in ways of death.  Fear is the necessary and appropriate response toward God, His Word, His Law, and His name because God is worthy.  I think that is why it is mentioned in the Scriptures more than any other attitude of vital devotion.  

Consider the number of expressions the Bible uses:  

1. Fear of the Lord, 30 times. 
2. Fear the Lord, 32 times. 
3. Fear Him, 21 times. 
4. Fear God, ten times. 
5. Fear of God, 8 times. 
6. Feared the Lord, 8 times. 
7. Feareth the Lord, 7 times. 
8. Feared God, 5 times. 
9. Fearing the Lord, 1 time. 
10. Fearing God, 1 time. 
11. Fearest God, 1 time. 
12. Feareth Him, 1 time. 
13. Fear thou God, 1 time. 
14. Fear my name, 1 time.  

Today there is a widespread heresy, that since God is love (1 John 4:8b), and perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18b), then no Christian should FEAR God.  Is this correct?  NO! and NO!  They have taken this Scripture out of context. They are not handling it correctly.  Many feel that we should avoid mentioning the fear of God because it makes them uncomfortable.  They ignore that "the LORD takes pleasure in those who fear Him." (Psalm 147:7)  They forget that in the Old Testament, Joshua exhorted and encouraged the people to "fear the LORD and serve Him with all faithfulness."  (Joshua 24:14).  From Genesis to Revelation, we are taught to serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling (Psalm 2:11).  Jesus said, "Do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more that they can do. But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him!"  (Luke 12:4-5)  Jesus spoke more about the fear of hell than He did about the glory of heaven!  He thought it to be urgent. That ought to make us love Him and fear Him!  

The design of this study is to instill in you and me the fear of God, for His glory and for our salvation.  Fearing God brings many great blessings and rewards.  Let us not deprive ourselves of the fulfillment of God’s will in full obedience, so that we may meet Him confidently.  It is my prayer that you and I will serve the LORD with reverent fear, and rejoice with trembling that we may enter the gates of heaven forever.

I.   UNDERSTANDING THE FEAR OF GOD: 

1.   The Meaning of the Word Fear:

• Strong's Concordance:

The word fear is phobos meaning panic flight, fear, the causing of fear, terror, reverence.

Definition: (a) fear, terror, alarm, (b) the object or cause of fear, (c) reverence, respect, sense of awe. Fear (5401 /phóbos) is commonly used in Scripture – sometimes positively (in relation to God) but more often negatively of withdrawing from the Lord (His will).  Phóbos ("fear") means withdraw (separate from), i.e. flee (remove oneself) and hence to avoid because of dread (fright).

• Thayer's Greek Lexicon:

STRONGS NT 5401: φόβος

Fear, dread, terror; in a subjective sense.  Reverence, respect (for authority, rank, dignity): Romans 13:7; 1 Peter 2:18; 1 Peter 3:16 (15); ἡ ἐν φόβῳ ἀναστροφή, behavior coupled with (cf. ἐν, I. 5 e.) reverence for one's husband, 1 Peter 3:2; φόβος with a genitive of the object: τοῦ κυρίου, Acts 9:31; 2 Corinthians 5:11; Χριστοῦ, Ephesians 5:21 (not Rec.); Θεοῦ, Romans 3:18; 2 Corinthians 7:1; (Ephesians 5:21 Rec.).  

• Vine's Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words:  Fear, Fearful, Fearfulness

1.  Phobos first had the meaning of flight," that which is caused by being scared; then, "that which may cause flight,"  (a) "fear, dread, terror," always with this significance in the four Gospels; also e.g., in Acts 2:43; Acts 19:17; 1 Corinthians 2:3; 1 Timothy 5:20 (lit., "may have fear"); Hebrews 2:15; 1 John 4:18; Revelation 11:11; Revelation 18:10, Revelation 18:15; by metonymy, that which causes "fear," Romans 13:3; 1 Peter 3:14, RV, "(their) fear," AV "(their) terror," an adaptation of the Sept. of Isaiah 8:12, "fear not their fear;" hence some take it to mean, as there, "what they fear," but in view of Matthew 10:28, e.g., it seems best to understand it as that which is caused by the intimidation of adversaries; (b) "reverential fear,"   (1) of God, as a controlling motive of the life, in matters spiritual and moral, not a mere "fear" of His power and righteous retribution, but a wholesome dread of displeasing Him, a "fear" which banishes the terror that shrinks from His presence, Romans 8:15, and which influences the disposition and attitude of one whose circumstances are guided by trust in God, through the indwelling Spirit of God, Acts 9:31; Romans 3:18; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Ephesians 5:21 (RV, "the fear of Christ"); Philippians 2:12; 1 Peter 1:17 (a comprehensive phrase: the reverential "fear" of God will inspire a constant carefulness in dealing with others in His "fear"); 1 Peter 3:2, 1 Peter 3:15; the association of "fear and trembling," as e.g., in Philippians 2:12, has in the Sept. a much sterner import, e.g., Genesis 9:2; Exodus 15:16; Deuteronomy 2:25; Deuteronomy 11:25; Psalms 55:5; Isaiah 19:16;  (2) of superiors, e.g., Romans 13:7; 1 Peter 2:18. See TERROR.

Adjective, phoberos, "fearful" (akin to A, No. 1), is used only in the Active sense in the NT, i.e., causing "fear, terrible," Hebrews 10:27, Hebrews 10:31; Hebrews 12:21, RV, "fearful," for AV, "terrible." 

2.  Deilia, "fearfulness" (from deos, "fright"), is rightly rendered "fearfulness" in 2 Timothy 1:7, RV (for AV, "fear"). That spirit is not given us of God. The word denotes "cowardice and timidity" and is never used in a good sense, as No. 1 is. Cp. deilos, B, No. 2, below, and deiliao, to be fearful (AV, "afraid"), John 14:27. 

Adjective, deilos, "cowardly, " "timid," is used in Matthew 8:26; Mark 4:40; Revelation 21:8 (here "the fearful" are first in the list of the transgressors). 

3.  Eulabeia signifies, firstly, "caution;" then, "reverence, godly fear," Hebrews 5:7; Hebrews 12:28, in best mss., "reverence;" in general, "apprehension, but especially holy fear," "that mingled fear and love which, combined, constitute the piety of man toward God; the OT places its emphasis on the fear, the NT ... on the love, though there was love in the fear of God's saints then, as there must be fear in their love now" (Trench, Syn, xlviii). In the Sept., Joshua 22:24; Proverbs 28:14. 

Note: In Luke 21:11, phobetron (akin to No. 1) denotes a terror, RV, "terrors," for AV, "fearful sights," i.e., objects or instruments of terror. 

Having now a proper understanding of the word "fear," let us value the fear of the LORD.  

II.   WHAT IS THE FEAR OF THE LORD?

It is the belief in our Creator, the God of the Bible, with an awestruck consciousness of His glory and greatness.  It is an earnest desire to obey Him and whatever He requires, to please Him, to avoid His wrath, judgment.  Fear and loving God are very compatible (Deut. 10:12).   In Luke 12:1-5 Jesus said,

“Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2 Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. 3 Therefore whatever you have said in the dark shall be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in private rooms shall be proclaimed on the housetops. 4 “I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more that they can do. 5 But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell.  Yes, I tell you, fear him!"

In this passage, Jesus is speaking explicitly about God's divine authority and perfect justice and not His character.  But someone might say, "God is love," still God's love does not give us license to do as we please, nor is it permissive.  And though our God is a loving God, He is not a God who authorizes or allows sin to continue in His children's lives without consequences whatsoever. Unfortunately, there are many people today who completely misunderstand, and misinterpret the meaning of this subject of fear toward God.  They interpret or define poorly the authority of God or "fear of God" as a detriment (restriction) to one's happiness and an obstruction (hindrance) to one's freedom.  When in fact, it is precisely the opposite.

Fearing God is despising or hating what He hates, sin.  It is wanting and loving what He approves.  It is guarding our conduct always (our thoughts, words, actions) for His approval (2 Cor. 5:9).  It is our most fundamental tool for a good conscience, the basis of judging all of our decisions of daily conduct.  It is matching our life and character with God's perfect will in all.  It is our goal in life to glorify Him and be in compliance with His Word.  

The fear of God is submission, reverence, commitment, faithfulness, obedience, worship and honor toward God.  It is the most foundational and inclusive expression of love, obedience, and service to God.  And where does all this come from?  From fearing God!  So, do all men fear God? No! Can they all learn it, if they work at it? Yes, of course!  And though all humanity was born without sin, made upright in the likeness of God, they chose to corrupt themselves and turn away from their Creator God, sinning.  They chose to rebel against Him (Romans 1:18). Therefore, they have to seek after God and learn the fear of God.  The fear of God is instilled in men, when they hear the Gospel, repent and obey its commands.  It is then that they begin the process of regeneration through God's Grace (Titus 2:11-12; 1 Peter 1:22-24; Rom. 12:1-2).  Once a man is born of the Spirit, John 3:3-8, he can increase, and improve in the fear of God through the Word.  (Deut. 17:19; Psalm 19:9; 34:11)  The fear of God is something that we must work on, until our dying breath.  It is vital that we teach the fear of God by reproof and correction, that we may work the righteousness of God.  "Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning."  (1 Timothy 5:20) 

The fear of men is entirely inferior to the fear of God (Prov. 29:25; Luke 14:26; Acts 5:29).  Even though children must fear their parents, it is not the fear of God (Lev. 19:3; Heb. 12:9).  Wives fearing their husbands, still is not the fear of God (Eph. 5:33; 1 Peter 3:5-6).  Servants fearing their masters still is not the fear of God (Eph. 6:5; 1 Peter 2:18).  Citizens fearing their rulers, still is not the fear of God (Prov. 24:21; Romans 13:3).  

• Let us consider five factors that must compel us to fear God.

1. To be in God's presence is dreadful, especially in His wrath (Nahum 1:5-6).  His greatness and majesty are superior to what any man has ever contemplated, (Job 37:22).  His glorious Being is superior to men, and because He is holy (Isa. 6:5).  His goodness and His attributes must be shielded and muted for man's safety, (Exo. 34:5-9).
2. He is infinitely perfect, righteous, and far superior to anything and anyone else.  He is ruler over all His creation and all facets of life (Eccl. 3:14; Prov. 16:4; Ps. 76:10; Isa. 10:5-15).   He is omniscient, knowing all, both good and bad (Prov. 15:3; Heb. 4:12-13).  He is omnipresent, present in all places, at all times (Ps. 139:7-13; Jer. 23:23-24).  He is omnipotent, able to do anything He purposes to do (Job 37:23; Jer. 32:17).  He is absolutely righteous so that He judges without showing any partiality (Deut. 10:17; Job 34:19; 2 Chron. 19:7).
3. His creation and His works are awe-inspiring. They inspire fear in those who witness His power and glory.  His creation must compel us to constantly fear Him (Ps. 33:6-9).  His providence and power to give and withhold, causes us to fear that He may withhold those blessings if we displease Him (Jer. 5:24; Rom. 9:21).  His forgiveness, redemption are aspects of His nature that causes us to fear Him because He had every right to deny us His forgiveness and redemption (Ps. 130:3-4).
4. His great name ought to produce fear (Ex. 3:13-14; 20:7; Deut. 28:58; Ps. 111:9).  
5. His judgment, His wrath is fearful (Ex. 14:31; Ps. 119:120; Heb. 10:30-31).

• The fear of God is a character issue:  

Those who fear God are more prone to live in a way that honors God.  They keep their commitments and treat others with the same grace God has shown them.  Romans 3, a chapter about sin, declares that mankind's chief reason for sin is that "There is no fear of God before their eyes.”  (Romans 3:18)  Many people fear the wrong things.  They think that the world is the "ultimate threat and that God's function is merely to offset it." How different is this from the position that God is supreme and all-powerful in His creation!  The truth is, the world's threats are just temporary.  You see when mankind disrespects God and fails to fear Him and His authority as supreme over all His creation, he reduces and diminishes God, our Creator.  His infinite authority and power rescue men from their delusions of self-righteousness by revealing to them the Truth that sets them free from the bondage of sin.

So, what about unbelievers, those who have not yet obeyed the Gospel?  Unbelievers experience a different kind of fear.  For them, the fear of God will begin when they face the judgment of God and eternal death (eternal separation from God, Luke 12:5; Heb. 10:31).   Indeed, it is a terrifying judgment!  When we "go on sinning willfully after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, 27 but a terrifying expectation of judgment and the fury of a fire which will consume the adversaries."  (Hebrews 10:25-27).  When man rejects the Truth, and the redemptive blood of Jesus (that is they remain outside of God's grace and His kingdom), the wrath of God awaits them.  God will indeed execute His judgment over the ungodly and will condemn their ungodly deeds and all the "the harsh things which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him.”  (Jude 1:15)  God's righteous wrath will be reserved for those who do not obey the Truth but rather unrighteousness (Romans 2:8).  Knowing this dreadful truth, have you obeyed the Gospel?  

• Characteristics of those who fear God:

1. They hate all sin because evil things offend God (evil thoughts, evil works), (Prov. 8:13; 6:16-19; 14:16,27; 16:6; 23:17; Job 1:1; 28:28; Ps. 5:5; 97:10; 110:128; 139:21-22; 2 Cor. 7:1).
2. They depart from all evil (Prov. 3:7; Ps. 34:14).
3. They delight in God's commands and keep them (Ps. 112:1; Eccl. 12:13-14; Deut. 10:12-13). They are no burden to them. 
4. They are willing to sacrifice all for their God.  Abraham proved his fear of God by his willingness to sacrifice his son, Isaac (Genesis 22:12).
5. They obey God's precepts or laws to please Him and avoid His wrath (Ex. 1:17; Heb. 11:7).
6. They deny themselves, taking up their cross to follow Him and His kingdom of righteousness (Matt. 16:24-26).
7. They walk uprightly, always doing what is right, just and godly (Prov. 14:2).
8. They submit to God and others, proper relationships, not disputing, or striving at all (Eph. 5:21).
9. They do not walk in arrogance, pride, for fear of God is one of the greatest antidotes to arrogance.
10. They are the best employees, for they fear God and obey Him knowing that it pleases Him when they serve faithfully, with sincerity of heart, fearing Him (Col. 3:22).
11. They pray all the time like Cornelius, a God-fearing man (Acts 10:2).
12. They revere God for His person, name, word, and worship (Psalm 89:7; 86:11; 138:2; 89:7).

• Four Values of Holy Fear:

1. The "fear of the LORD" is not rooted in doubt but rather in our confidence and assurance as God's adopted children. The fear of God is the same as the fear and respect a child has for his earthly father; knowing and trusting that He is always there to watch over us when we cry out to Him, “Abba! Father!”
2. The "fear of the LORD" is also grounded in our respectful knowledge, though limited, of His perfect, excellent character.  God is God, and we are mere men.  His majestic and awesome essence compels us to a profound respect for Him.  It generates a desire in us to live in such a way as to bring the honor and glory that is due Him.  It is a blessing indeed!
3. The "fear of the LORD" is also rooted in our desire to be in harmony with God.  We hate sin because it puts a distance between our God and us.  When we separate ourselves from sin, we put that distance where it belongs.  The holy fear of being separated from His blessed communion compels us to draw back when tempted to sin.
4. The "fear of the LORD" is grounded in our recognition of God's holiness.  God is holy.  Our holy fear forces us to be deeply aware of His holiness and seek to be holy as He is holy.  

For Christians, the fear of God is not the irrational fear of the unknown, but rather a reverent fear for the One who has revealed Himself to us, not only by His creation of the universe but also by His Son, our Savior Jesus Christ.  It is important that we stress the difference between holy fear of God and an unholy fear of God.  There is godly fear and ungodly fear (Ex. 20:20; 1 John 4:18; 2 Tim. 1:7; Rev. 21:8).  Fear that torments is consistent with anguish, distress, rebellion.  It is that kind of fear taught by men.  It is ungodly fear.  The spirit of slavery to sin leads us to fear, sin, anguish, distress, terror, bondage, rebellion, excuses, man-made doctrines and traditions, hypocrisy, laziness, etc. (Prov. 1:27; Prov. 26:13; Prov. 28:14-15; Gen 3:12; Isa. 29:13; 2 Kings 17:24-33; Luke 21:26; Rom. 8:15; Heb. 2:15).  Rather, the Spirit of adoption through Christ leads us to communion, adoption, forgiveness, love, trust, joy, hope, trembling, honor, dread, thanksgiving, and ultimately our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (Rom. 8:15; 1 John 4:18; Ps. 130:4; Ps. 31:19; Ps. 2:11; Ps. 33:18; 147:11; Isa. 8:13; Ps. 119:120; Ps. 34:10, Mal. 1:6; Isa. 11:3).  Seeking God is godly or holy fear. The fear of God is compatible with loving God (Deut. 6:4-54 cp Deut. 10:12-13).  The fear of God is entirely compatible with a humble faith (Micah 6:6-8; Heb. 11:6).  Godly fear seeks after God with repentance, godly sorrow, hoping for His mercy and forgiveness (2 Sam. 12:13; Ps. 33:18; 130:4; 147:11; Isa. 6:5-8; Matt. 15:21-28; Luke 5:8-9; 7:36-50; 18:13; Acts 2:37-38).  Ungodly or unholy fear runs away in rebellion and self-pity (Gen. 3:10; 2 Sam. 6:9-10; Matt. 27:3-6).

III.  WHY SHOULD WE REVERENCE OR FEAR GOD?  

1. Because God is our Creator (Psalm 8:3-4).  He is Supreme, and we are His offspring (Acts 17:28-29).  He gave His son to die for us (John 3:16).  He became our Spiritual Father when He adopted us into His kingdom by faith toward His Son and the obedience of the Gospel (John 3:3; Gal. 3:26-27).  
2. Because it is the most righteous thing to do.  God requires that His children, His church walk with Him in complete reverence and obedience (Deuteronomy 10:12-22; Heb. 12:9).  Fearing God causes us to hate evil (Prov. 8:13).   
3. Because He is our Lawgiver, Master, and Judge (Matt. 4:10).  And since He is our Judge, "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God."  (Heb. 10:30-31)  God has not changed as Paul tried to quote from Deuteronomy 4:24 to prove it.  God has made it clear that He is to be greatly feared with reverence.  It is the most fundamental foundation and measure of man's life to be great in God's sight.  It is utterly consistent and compatible with loving, walking, and serving God.  It is walking in all of God's ways. Our fear of God compels us to love and serve Him with reverent obedience (Heb. 12:28-29).  It is good for us.  Fearing God is the condition for God's precious promises made by Him to His children:  good life, permanent satisfaction with life, and safety or protection from evil (Proverbs 19:23).  It is indeed the most reasonable condition (fearing God) requested by God Himself.  There is a great Day of Judgment coming, and we must be prepared for it.  It is God's answer to all philosophical questions concerning man's primary purpose here on earth.  
4. Because He has warned us to fear Him and not men (Luke 12:4-5).  The consequences of offending men are not as grave when compared to the consequences of offending God.  The doctrine of fear toward God is rarely heard today. Modern preachers abuse God's mercy, lovingkindness, and grace, misusing beautiful verses like John 3:16. They gorge themselves, feasting on the riches of God’s mercy, all the while setting aside the warnings of God against careless Christians, who indulge the flesh as if the mercy of God would ignore a return to sin and the reckless disregard of the Lord’s authority.  
5. Because those who fear God will receive God's blessings, goodness, and reward (Psalm 31:19; 128:1; Rev. 11:18).  They will eat of their own labor, be happy, have a good and fruitful life (Psalm 128:1-6).   In the fear of the Lord, one has strong confidence and can find refuge. The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death.  (Prov. 14:26-27)  
6. Because it is the first step to obtaining wisdom (Job 28:28; Psalm 111:10; Prov. 1:7;9:10).  All reasoning begins with foundational arguments to which reasoning appeals and on which it rests.  All reasoning has presuppositions.  Take, for instance, the atheists who appeal only to the origin of the universe and their baboon ancestors as accidental.  What they call science is pure speculation, profane, and vain babblings (1 Tim. 6:20-21).  In contrast, those who fear God begin all reasoning with their all-wise Creator who wrote a Manual filled with instructions, rules of conduct, consequences, death, salvation, judgment, etc.  You see, without fearing God, man is prompt to be unreasonable and foolish (1 Cor. 1:19-20; 2 Thess. 3:1-2). The fear of God gives men all the answers to life's questions (Ps. 119:128).  God mercifully pities those who fear Him (Ps. 103:11-18).  Thus, He protects them well (Ps. 33:18-19).  He will reward them on Judgment Day (Mal. 3:16-18).  
7. And finally, because it is the whole duty of man.

"The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. 14 For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil."  (Eccl. 12:13-14)  

1. What Is Our Duty?

One of the most famous passages in the Bible is found in Ecclesiastes 12:13-14. The word "vanity" is used 33 times in this book.  The writer concludes his wise counsel by highlighting the whole duty of man. It is to fear God and keep His commandments. This is the only thing that is not "vanity." Duty is that which is obligatory or required.  Thus, our obligation to our Creator God is to fear Him and keep His commands.  Without doing that, all is vanity!  Unfaithful Bible teachers minimize our obligation to God by denying this critical point.  And though the Bible stresses the fear of God and keeping His commands consistently, false teachers minimize such things.

In 1 John 5:3, God commands us to love Him and keep His commands. To obey His commands means to love Him.  So, what is so difficult about accepting this aspect of love?  Do you not love God? Are you not aware that  God demands that we commit to Him faithfully as His obedient servants? Paul said in Romans 6:16,  "Do you not know that when you present yourselves to someone as slaves for obedience, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin resulting in death, or of obedience resulting in righteousness?"    Then in verses 17-18, we read, "But thanks be to God that though you were slaves of sin, you became obedient from the heart to that form of teaching to which you were committed, 18 and having been freed from sin, you became slaves of righteousness."  You see, we express our gratitude when we obey.  "For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil."  (Verse 14)  Hence, let us be diligent to show our love for God by doing His commandments. In doing that which God has commanded out of love, we indeed become profitable servants and look forward to eternity with God.  Fear and love cannot exist, one without the other.

The love of God must compel us to fear Him. Paul describes God's love saying, "He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things?"   (Romans 8:32) God's own Son was the ultimate sacrifice for our sins.  His love for us caused Him to deliver His Son to be savagely abused and tortured to death.  Don't you think this act of love demands reverential fear?  To ignore such a sacrifice, can only bring God's wrath on us, His righteousness is vindicated.  

God rescues and defends those who fear Him (Psalm 34:7).  They will lack nothing (Psalm 34:9). Salvation is surely near to them (Psalm 85:9); they will receive God's steadfast love, compassion, and mercy (Ps. 103:11,13,17; Luke 1:50). God will hear their prayers and supplications (Psalm 145:19; Heb. 5:7; Acts 10:1, 2,31). God will take pleasure in them (Psalm 147:11; Acts 10:35) who fear and obey Him (Heb. 11:7; Gen. 22:12).  There are many practical blessings promised to those who fear the LORD in this life, anticipating the life to come.  Besides the promises mentioned above, there are many other promises made by God to all who fear Him (Ps. 112:1; 128:1,3; Pr. 22:4, etc.).  

IV.  THE FEAR OF GOD IN THE OLD TESTAMENT:

1. In Genesis 28:17 Jacob was afraid and said, "How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.”  
2. In Genesis 42:18, Joseph won his brothers' trust and his family's peace because he was a God-fearing man.  
3. The midwives obeyed God instead of the Egyptian rulers and were able to spare the lives of the Hebrew baby boys because they feared God (Exodus 1:17).  
4. By contrast, Pharaoh brought destruction and death on his nation because he did not fear God (Exodus 9:29-31).  
5. Moses chose his leaders to help him based on the fear of God (Exodus 18:21).  
6. The people trembled and were afraid when they heard the thunder and the flashes of lightning and the sound of the trumpet and the mountain smoking (Exodus 20:18).  
7. The people in the camp trembled when they were in the presence of God (Ex. 19:16-19).
8. Moses told the people not to fear, for God had come to test them, that the fear of Him might be before them, and they wouldn't forget His authority and sin (Exo. 20:20).  
9. The people promised to obey the Law because of their fear of God (Deut. 5:22-27).  Sadly, that fear did not last long, for they would forget God's commands, murmuring against God and because of their idolatry.  
10. The Mosaic Law cited the fear of God and treated the disabled and the elderly honorably and faithfully (Lev. 19:14, 32).  
11. Nehemiah told the people to walk in the fear of God to prevent the reproach of their enemies (Neh. 5:9).  
12. "Holy and fearful is His name."  (Psalm 111:9)  
13. In Proverbs, the expression the "fear of God" appears 15 times.   
14. All true knowledge, wisdom, and instruction come from God (Prov. 1:7). 

V.   THE FEAR OF GOD AND THE EARLY CHURCH:

The early church walked in the fear of God (Acts 2:42-43; 5:5, 11; 9:31; 10:35; 13:26; 24:25, etc.). The church was described with the phrase, "fear came on every soul." (Acts 2:43)  

1. Because of their fear of God, they bore good fruits: 3,000 Jews obeyed the Gospel and persevered in the doctrine of the apostles.  In fact, they were willing to suffer lashings, imprisonment, and even death.  The church had to be taught the fear of God.  
2. Because of that fear of God, they were motivated to love and commune with one another; sacrificing to serve the physical needs of their brethren (Acts 2:44-46).  They likewise were motivated to obey God first rather than men (Acts 5:29).  They were moved to provide for needy widows (Acts 6).  They were motivated to suffer persecution (Acts 8:1-4).  The Book of Acts is filled with wonderful stories of those who feared God and bore much fruit for God's glory.  Their fear of God had a lot to do with the success of the gospel, the church, the dedication, devotion, and sanctification of the members.

• The Fear of God In The Epistles:

People sin against God because "there is no fear of God before their eyes."  (Romans 3:10-18) Lawlessness abounded because they had no fear of God (Romans 1:28).  Those who fear God honor all people (Romans 13:7); they persuade, warn, and admonish those who disobey God (2 Cor. 5:11).  Those who refuse to cleanse and purify their souls from the defilement of the flesh cannot perfect holiness in the fear of God (2 Cor. 7:1).  That simple!!  Moreover, the church that fears God exercises discipline according to the teachings of Matthew 18:15-17; Romans 16:17; 1 Corinthians 5, 11, 13; 2 Thessalonians 3:6, 14.   Consider the following.

1. Those who refuse to surrender to God's will, do not want to be subject to anyone.  
2. Children who do not obey their parents do not fear God.  
3. Wives who refuse to be subject to their husbands do not fear God.  
4. Citizens who are not subject to their earthly rulers, do not fear God either (Eph. 5:21-22). 
5. Christians who are indifferent, neglect their salvation, and do not work it out, do not fear God (Phil. 2:12).  
6. Those who disobey their employers do not fear God (Col. 3:22).   
7. Those who continue in sin refusing to repent, do not fear God, must be rebuked in public, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning (1 Tim. 5:20).  
8. Those who forsake the assembling on the first day of the week do not fear the LORD (Heb. 10:24-25).  
9. By the same token, those who "go on sinning willfully after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a terrifying expectation of judgment and the fury of a fire which will consume the adversaries."  (Heb. 10:26:27)  They will be judged with the wrath of God because they did not fear Him.  
10. Finally, those who do not work righteousness, but are conformed to their former lusts, and do not conduct themselves in the fear of God will be judged by God according to their works (1 Peter 1:13-17).

VII.   THE FEAR OF GOD AND THE WORSHIP OF THE CHURCH:

A huge problem in the church today is the lack of fear of God.  We may say all we want about Christ being in us, but are we actually thinking of His power, dignity, greatness, and majesty?  (Revelation 1:10-15).  Often, we fall short because we lack respect and reverence (fear of God) during worship (first day of the week), the failure to do all things properly, and in an orderly manner (1 Cor. 14:40).  All it means is a lack of fear of God and nothing else.  Members and visitors arrive late to worship, Bible class, disturbing the church worship.  They reflect just a lack of fear of God.  There is little fear of God (respect and reverence) when both young and old get up, come and go as they please.  They treat God's worship as if it were any worldly social or family gathering.  To neglect any of the teachings of Christ or of the apostles demonstrates a lack of fear of God.  The fear of God demands total reverence in worship.  All the members must cooperate to make the worship entirely acceptable and pleasing to God.  We don't want to be the cause of irreverent worship to God. There must not be conversations during worship.  Likewise, it is irreverent to have silent conversations through written messages, texting, etc.  Worship is not the place to be chewing gum.  There must be complete reverence to God during worship.  "But all things must be done properly and in an orderly manner."  (1 Cor. 14:40)   Let us take heed!!

Complete attention and meditation in each act of worship are necessary if we want to offer acceptable worship in the fear of God.  We must conduct ourselves with reverence in all five acts or worship (singing, praying, Bible class, the Lord's Supper, and collection).  If we neglect to focus and meditate, when we partake of the Lord's Supper, it will be impossible to discern the body of the Lord, and the consequence of drinking the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be judged (1 Cor. 11:27-29).   We must never partake of the Lord's Supper as if it were an ordinary meal.  The same applies when we sing hymns.  It is important that we meditate on each word we're singing.  Otherwise, we are just reciting words.  During the sermon or Bible class, it is crucial that we focus and meditate on the Word of God.  The same also applies to prayer.  Are we praying enough during worship?  Or is it just quick, without meditation and concentration?  It is vital that we worship God in Spirit and Truth (John 4:24).  Just because someone is physically present during worship is no proof that he is worshiping God reverently.  The fear of God must compel us to offer Him worship both in spirit and truth.  If we indeed fear God, we will frequently offer worship to Him.  We will show up at each worship service, Bible class, Gospel meetings, both locally and in different other places to hear God's Word.  Our indifference to various services and classes indicates a lack of fear of God.  Take heed!

Loving God is not enough, for we must also fear Him.  Just as diamonds have many facets, so must be our relationship to God.  It must be multidimensional.  Why?  Because while we claim to love God, we must also walk with Him in all righteousness, sanctification, and holiness.  Knowing this, it is vital that we trust Him, believe Him, and fear Him!  Sadly, fewer pulpits are teaching this truth and are leading many into disobedience that will eventually cost their souls.  Do you know that a fundamental aspect of our faith and communion with God is fearing Him?  Anything less than trust, love, obedience, honor, fear, reverence is not true and saving faith.  The fear of the LORD is the only basis for perfecting holiness, godliness, and thus receiving God's promises (2 Cor. 7:1).  God hears the prayers of those who fear Him and revere Him (Heb. 5:7-8).  Fearing God means to obey and respect Him as the Creator.  Hence, He has every right to be the Master and Lord!  Fearing God is connected with Judgment Day (Rev. 14:7).  So, what will happen if we refuse to fear God?  A dreadful judgment!

VIII.   DEVELOPING THE FEAR OF GOD:

• Through the Word of God:

Each of us must increase in our knowledge of the Word of God (grace).  The same is said about the fear of God (Deut. 31:10-13; 17:19; Psalm 19:9; 119:120).  The fear of God must be taught, that it may fill our minds and hearts (Ps. 34:11; 2 Kings 17:24-33).  We must pray to God, that He may teach us to fear Him that we may walk in His Truth and have communion with Him (Ps. 86:11). When one studies and meditates on the Word of God, he can learn the fear of God.  Are you letting the Word of God teach you a proper reverence for Him?  Through God's Word, we learn to make choices based on the fear of the LORD.

1. If I fear God, I will not think contrary to His Word and will (Prov. 24:9; 15:26; Job 31:1).  
2. If I fear God, I will not say things contrary to His Word (Ps. 19:14; Prov. 10:32; 8:8).  
3. If I fear God, I will not do things contrary to His will and Word (Gen. 39:9; Job 31:9-12).  
4. If I fear God I will think thoughts pleasing and in harmony with God's will and Word (Phil. 4:8; 1 Cor. 6:19-20).  
5. If I fear God, I will speak things agreeable to His will and Word (Mal. 3:16; Ps. 73:15;; Eph. 5:4).  
6. If I fear God, I will do things that are pleasing to God (Ps. 15:1-4; 101:2-3; Ec. 12:13).  

Isn't it wonderful to be around those who fear God!!  (Psalm 119:63, 74, 79).  All righteous and godly men fear God (Titus 1:8; Ps. 15:4).

Sadly, 

1. Some only care about God's love and neglect to fear God.  
2. Others read their Bibles only about God's lovingkindness but neglect to read about God's judgment.  
3. Some belittle God's holiness and righteousness when they allow permissiveness in their lives without the fear of God.  

God's grace and forgiveness are only for those who fear Him and repent of their sins and live lives of holiness and godliness (2 Peter 3:7-14; Romans 2:4-11).  Let us study the Word of God to develop a reverent fear of God.

CONCLUSION:

This study has been very fruitful for me, as it deepened my understanding of the Scriptures. It's like seeking for a hidden treasure in a field, and when one finds it, he hides it again.  And in one's joy, he sells all that he has to buy it. That is exactly how my soul feels every time I dig deeper into the Scriptures and find God's hidden riches found in His Word.  Such treasures are too precious to me! The Bible is God's treasure chest that helps us hunt for His precious gems found in His Word.  David said, "In Thy precepts I meditate, And I behold attentively Thy paths.  In Thy statutes I delight myself, I do not forget Thy word."  (Psalm 119:15-16)   Like David, I want to saturate my heart with God's Truth and treasure it in my heart.  I want to contemplate God's riches and treasures, and delight in the Lord's teachings.  

The fear of God moves us to abandon sin, separate, and cleanse ourselves from it. Those who fear God will receive a great reward. Even in this life, they will receive honor and riches; they will be defended by God.  Those who are wise, fear God because they understand, appreciate, and develop reverence toward Him in their lives.  Since we walk on holy ground, our lives must reflect reverence toward God.  Otherwise, we run the risk of being consumed by God's wrath against our sins (Heb. 12:29).  Fearing God means one does not fear man.  The fear of God saves us from the bondage of sin.  Wisdom originates in the fear of God.  

1. God opens our eyes, ears, and hearts to His Truth and wisdom (1 Kings 3:5-15; James 1:5).
2. God opens the eyes of men through His Word; He shows them His secrets.  
3. If we are wise enough to accept His treasures, we will fear no man, for God's wisdom, cannot be found, but in the fear of God (Job 28:12-28).   
4. The man who fears the LORD will be greatly blessed (Ps. 128:1-6).  
5. The one who does not fear the LORD is destroyed by the ungodly snares of this world (Prov. 10:27; 22:5; Eccl. 7:17).

The fear of the LORD is sober reverence and a holy desire to please God.  He who fears God rejects sin.  The fountain of life does not depend on circumstances, but on fearing God, for even if we have little, but we fear the LORD, our life is better than the life of someone who has great treasure surrounded with trouble (Prov. 15:16).   Jesus, our Lord, feared God the Father, even when facing death on the cross.  Because of His fear and reverence, He provided a fountain of eternal life to save mankind from the wrath of God.  Those who love and fear Him will find the Truth (John 8:32). Fearing God is connected to judgment (Rev. 14:7).  God is the Righteous Judge of all His creation who sits on His throne judging all the nations with justice and equity.

All those who fear God will do what is necessary to become acceptable and pleasing to Him (Acts 10:35).  Holiness is perfected when we walk in the fear of the Lord (2 Cor. 7:1).  But the fear of God must be taught (Psalm 34:11).  The fear of God helps us to depart from evil and gives us righteous understanding (Job 28:28).  The natural man refuses to fear and obey God.  The Bible calls them fools, (Ps. 14:1; 36:1; 58:1).  Their reasoning is perverse and full of conceited ideas and assumptions (Rom. 1:20-23; 1 Tim. 6:3-5, 20-21).  The spiritual man fears God and thus is wise and reasonable.  He is rescued because his thoughts begin with faith and fear in God (2 Thess. 3:2; Heb. 11:3,6).  Now, the fool is deceived with the thoughts, thinking of other fools rather than the Words of God.  The knowledge of a fool revolves around his assumptions.  He assumes his ideas are smarter and more rational.  While the righteous and God-fearing man affirms his faith based on God's infinite wisdom and Truth revealed in the Scriptures.  He humbles himself and acknowledges with godly fear that he knows nothing and needs God's help.  He knows the Word of God is entirely true and perfect.

The fear of God is clean (Psalm 19:9). There is nothing evil about fearing God.  The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom and good understanding.  Those who practice it keep His commands and turn away from evil (Psalm 34:11; 111:10; Job 28:28).  True fulfillment is found in fearing God and keeping His commands.  Those who do not fear God, will not keep His commands, or at least not those he wishes to ignore (cf. John 14:15; I John 5:3).  To live a holy life, the fear of God is necessary.  Our fear of God determines our commitment to holiness.  In 2 Cor. 7:1 Paul stated, "...let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." It's not enough to be set apart partially for God's use. We must be set apart for His purposes completely!  When we fear God, we will allow God to shape our lives and our hearts through His Gospel message, into things much greater than bars of steel. We will not resist God's way (as steel) to mold, polish, and refine us.  The more we fear God, the more we will allow Him to shape us and use us for His purposes. 

Indeed, the fear of the LORD is the foundation of wisdom and instruction; without it, it will be difficult to fear God and keep His commands and be prepared for God's judgment (Ecclesiastes 12:32-34).  Everything will be exposed by God, both good and evil on that Final Day (cf. John 5:28,29; II Cor. 5:10). It represents God's all-inclusiveness about judgment and life after death. "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction." (Proverbs 1:7)  Where does knowledge begin? When one has the right attitude of deep reverence and humility toward God.  Thus, a superior intellect is not enough to learn God's Truth and wisdom.  To fear God is to acknowledge His power, authority, and respect Him for who He is.  Godliness in the Bible is literally the fear of God and the devotion that grows out of that fear. Fearing God is loving His commands and hating all forms of evil (Prov. 8:13; 16:6; Psalm 111:10; 112:1).  Fearing God recognizes Him as the First Cause and Last Cause of all things (Prov. 16:4; Rev. 4:11).  He who fears God seeks His forgiveness to please Him, (Ps. 130:3-4).  He trembles humbly at His Word (Isa. 66:2).  To fear God is the whole duty of man (Eccl. 12:13-14).

Sadly, many churches are moving farther from the fear of the LORD.  It is an indication that they fear men rather than God.  Many pulpits avoid teaching the fear of God as they soften the Message.  In their effort, they are running from the very thing the church needs:  the fear of God and giving Him glory.  You see, the early church walked "in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit."  (Acts 9:31)  Did you catch that?!  The church was powerful and multiplied because they walked in the fear of God and not to please men.  Did you know that sanctification, holiness, and the fear of God go hand in hand?  Paul reminds us to "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling."  (Phil. 2:12)  There can be no regeneration, no renewing of our minds, without the fear of the LORD.  

1. Fear motivates one to godly sorrow and forgiveness.  
2. The fear of the LORD saves man from himself.  
3. The fear of God involves respect and reverence toward God Almighty.  
4. Godly or holy fear protects us.  
5. So often, reverent fear moves men to Christ and His plan of redemption.  

Therefore, it is vital for the church to preach and teach the fear of God and faithfulness to Him.  We live in a godless society that has been affected by this.  They have lost reverence toward God and His Word, His Truth.  They refuse to serve Him with reverence in doctrine, worship, and conduct. They have neither respect nor honor toward God or His authority, submitting to Him in all things (Heb. 12:9; Col. 3:17, 23; Ps. 111:10; 119;161; Eccl. 12:13).  We must fight against the current and start exalting God, for He must be rightly feared.  The world, even Christians sometimes use the tune, NO FEAR!  Come on!!!  Even the devil's angels have more common sense than we have.  Many think that God and the word "fear" are incompatible, for all they know is the sentimental, silly caricature they have created.  They show absolutely no fear of God.  Therefore, let us never forget that our lives reflect our reverence or fear toward God.  If we let sin consume our lives, because of our lack of fear and reverence toward God, His wrath will consume us (Heb. 12:29). Take heed!

"Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe (fear); 29 for our God is a consuming fire."  (Hebrews 12:28-29)

May we always fear, trust, and submit to His will, waiting with patience for Him to transform us.   May we fear God always, walking in His ways, loving Him, and serving Him with all our heart and soul.  May we cleanse ourselves from the filthiness of sin perfecting holiness in the fear of God. May we put into practice the fear of God in every aspect of our life here on earth, that we may sanctify and exalt our Creator God.  May we teach all men the fear of the LORD, that they may come to know and obey Him and receive salvation.

Luci

ABIGAIL'S INSIGHT SAVED THE DAY

"Get wisdom; get insight; do not forget, and do not turn away from the words of my mouth.  Do not forsake her, and she will keep you; love her, and she will guard you.  The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight."  

Proverbs 4:5-7

Abigail was a beautiful woman, but we do not remember her for her beauty. We remember her for the grace and wisdom of her words that saved the lives of her loved ones and blessed the future king of Israel.  Let us take another look at the lessons that Abigail teaches us.

As I study the Proverbs, I see that wisdom, understanding, and strength are vital to character traits. As I read them, Abigail's godly example of wisdom and strength comes to mind.  Abigail's great insight will be my focal point in this study.  Although the Bible gives us little background about this great woman of God, we can conclude from reading her story that she was a woman of strength, courage, intelligence, integrity, and insight.  Her story reveals a woman who understood her place and acted decisively and honestly.  The Scriptures present her as a beautiful and intelligent woman whose lot in life was to be married to a rich fool. Abigail manifests her wisdom and determination to save others from disaster.  Wisdom acts immediately when there is danger.  Lady Wisdom cannot afford to stand by and watch destruction that can be avoided.  Abigail's example shows the importance of choosing the right words, wise words, that are necessary when speaking in tense situations. Harsh, loud words are catalysts that produce an unnecessary explosion. They drive many to actions that they will later have to regret.  In contrast, calm, gentle, carefully calculated words can lead to a peaceful crisis resolution. This lesson's golden message deserves careful attention:

"A gentle (soft) answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger."  (Proverbs 15:1)

As we read through the few pages of this beautiful story, it is easy to capture the attitudes and actions of three persons. One doesn't hesitate to spout inflammatory words without regard to potential consequences. Another hears the words and, in haste, chooses to retaliate with far-reaching implications.  But standing between them, there is a woman who immediately grasps the entire setting. Therefore, she hastens to bring a peaceful end, which, in the long run, will bring blessings to her and those around her.  There is much to learn from Abigal's story.  Our attitude of heart is critical when evil assails us.  And though our personalities and emotional levels may differ, we must strive to be calm, peaceful, and collected.  Thus, it is wise to think twice before speaking.  Abigail's insight protected her current husband and the man who later became her husband. Abigail seized the information given, understood what needed to be done, and then did it.

 "WISDOM" is mentioned at least 45 times in the Book of Proverbs.  Have you ever wondered why some teeth are called "wisdom teeth?"  We call them "wisdom teeth" because we get them at the onset of maturity.  Throughout the Bible, wisdom and understanding are always found hand in hand.  "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of both wisdom and understanding."  (Proverbs 1:7; 9:10).  Although the two words seem to be used interchangeably, wisdom more often refers to the practical application of understanding.


I.  DETERMINED ACTION:   (1 Samuel 25:2-19)

• David's Request:

"Now there was a man in Maon whose business was in Carmel; and the man was very rich, and he had three thousand sheep and a thousand goats. And it came about while he was shearing his sheep in Carmel 3 (now the man’s name was Nabal, and his wife’s name was Abigail. And the woman was intelligent and beautiful in appearance, but the man was harsh and evil in his dealings, and he was a Calebite), 4 that David heard in the wilderness that Nabal was shearing his sheep. 5 So David sent ten young men; and David said to the young men, 'Go up to Carmel, visit Nabal and greet him in my name; 6 and thus you shall say, ‘Have a long life, peace be to you, and peace be to your house, and peace be to all that you have. 7 Now I have heard that you have shearers; now your shepherds have been with us and we have not insulted them, nor have they missed anything all the days they were in Carmel. 8 Ask your young men and they will tell you. Therefore let my young men find favor in your eyes, for we have come on a festive day. Please give whatever you find at hand to your servants and to your son David.’  9 When David’s young men came, they spoke to Nabal according to all these words in David’s name; then they waited.'"  (1 Samuel 25:2-9)

The story of Abigail takes place during David's "outlaw" years when he and his men were fugitives from King Saul. David had to run from King Saul's madness.  Samuel, the prophet, had just died, leaving his country to mourn his death.  David and his six hundred men took refuge in the wilderness of Paran near Carmel.  Saul's forces pursued David, but he successfully escaped them despite Saul's spies located in various parts of the country.  In Carmel, a wealthy man named Nabal raised sheep and goats.  Nabal was Abigail's rude, impolite, and stubborn husband.  He lacked wisdom, the wisdom that his wife Abigail possessed.  Having many sheep and goats required many shepherds to provide them with proper care. Thanks to David and his men, Nabal's flocks and herds were well protected from the Ishmaelites, who wanted to steal and cause harm. David and his men were on the run and could have simply taken the herds to supply their needs or perhaps demand payment for their services.  Yet, they chose to be valiant and noble.  They instead cared for and protected the flocks that camped nearby.  Imagine the effort to shear the sheep and then care for the wool.  The shearing time is a time for festivity. Since shearing is similar in importance to harvest for a farmer, he is there for this significant shearing event.  I wonder if his parents gave him the name Nabal, "fool," or if it was conferred on him later in life?

The differences in personality between Nabal and his wife are pronounced. She is both beautiful and intelligent. Her name means "whose father is joy." On the other hand, there is her husband. He is "harsh and evil" (v. 3).   He lived up to his name, "fool."  Knowing that Nabal is in the area, David sends ten men to greet him and request provisions at this time of festivity.  They approached him with wishes of health and long life.  They point out their treatment of his shepherds and that no animals were missing. It means David and his men did not simply take animals for their personal use like some fugitives would have.  Notice that David made no specific request other than what Nabal could have spared at this celebration time.

• Nabal's Response: 

"But Nabal answered David’s servants and said, 'Who is David? And who is the son of Jesse? There are many servants today who are each breaking away from his master. 11 Shall I then take my bread and my water and my meat that I have slaughtered for my shearers, and give it to men whose origin I do not know?' 12 So David’s young men retraced their way and went back; and they came and told him according to all these words. 13 David said to his men, 'Each of you gird on his sword.' So each man girded on his sword. And David also girded on his sword, and about four hundred men went up behind David while two hundred stayed with the baggage.'"  (1 Samuel 25:10-13)

Nabal not only refused David's request but also mocked, ridiculed, and insulted David.  He likewise questioned David's character and anointing as future king.  Nabal harshly dismissed David's request. He phrased his insult as a question, "Who is David?" Who wouldn't know of the hero who brought victory to Israel by defeating Goliath? How could Nabal even pretend not to know the one whom the women praised in song (1 Samuel 18:7)? Nabal's response suggests David was merely a traitor to the king of Israel, a rebel. What a slap in the face to the messengers and their leader!

The wealthy Nabal would not have any problem complying with David’s request for provisions. Nevertheless, he chose to be foolish, even insulting and certainly lacking in generosity.   Nabal expresses no appreciation for the services rendered to his men and property. He wants to serve only himself.  His behavior infuriates David.  In a fit of rage, David ordered two-thirds of his army (400 men) to strap on their swords and prepare for battle.  Here we see an angry David who let his bruised ego overcome his wise and righteous judgment.  Meanwhile, one of Nabal's servants approached Abigail for help.  Here, we begin to see Abigail's strength and character shine through.   Had it not been for Abigail's wisdom, David would have accomplished his destruction plan.

• Abigail's Efforts:

"But one of the young men told Abigail, Nabal’s wife, saying, 'Behold, David sent messengers from the wilderness to greet our master, and he scorned them. 15 Yet the men were very good to us, and we were not insulted, nor did we miss anything as long as we went about with them, while we were in the fields. 16 They were a wall to us both by night and by day, all the time we were with them tending the sheep. 17 Now therefore, know and consider what you should do, for evil is plotted against our master and against all his household; and he is such a worthless man that no one can speak to him.' 18 Then Abigail hurried and took two hundred loaves of bread and two jugs of wine and five sheep already prepared and five measures of roasted grain and a hundred clusters of raisins and two hundred cakes of figs, and loaded them on donkeys. 19 She said to her young men, 'Go on before me; behold, I am coming after you.' But she did not tell her husband Nabal.'"  (1 Samuel 25:14-19)

When one of the young men, servants, informed Abigail of the events, she understood this was a crisis. She immediately acts to avoid an unnecessary catastrophe. Abigail becomes the source of wisdom and reason for her household.  She knew and understood her place as the wife and protector of her home.  Nabal was a thoughtless, self-absorbed, and arrogant man. Abigail was reasonable, wise, and prudent both in words and actions.  What a contrast!

Abigail did not waste time worrying about what to do next.  She went to work, trying to rectify this ugly situation.  Indeed, she was an intelligent woman who didn't have to mull over possible options.  She understood the gravity of the situation and potential impact instantly.  Time was of the essence. Therefore, she went to work rapidly, putting a plan into action to save her household.  She knew it was not profitable to scold her husband, Nabal, for being such a fool.  She acknowledged that she needed to act decisively to save her husband's life.  The future was in Abigail's hands. Disaster was coming on them. Perhaps, some tried to speak to Nabal about the situation. It would have accomplished nothing. Stubborn, obstinate, egotistical men do not change their minds! Or, if they do, it is under considerable pressure from the more powerful.

So, what does Abigail do?  She quickly gathers food supplies as a gift for David and his men. Once the donkeys are loaded, she sends them on ahead. Possibly she needed some extra time to be prepared adequately for the meeting. All this takes place without Nabal's knowledge. More than likely, he is out supervising or observing the shearing.


II.   WISE COUNSEL:   (1 Samuel 25:20-31)

• David's Intent:

"It came about as she was riding on her donkey and coming down by the hidden part of the mountain, that behold, David and his men were coming down toward her; so she met them. 21 Now David had said, 'Surely in vain I have guarded all that this man has in the wilderness, so that nothing was missed of all that belonged to him; and he has returned me evil for good. 22 May God do so to the enemies of David, and more also, if by morning I leave as much as one male of any who belong to him.'"  (1 Samuel 25:20-22)

According to this passage, David's thoughts are very evident. He realizes the worthlessness of all his good deeds toward Nabal.  His care for Nabal's property and flocks brought nothing more than railing insults.  Evidently, Nabal was a wealthy, self-centered person.  This kind of evil answer deserves the most severe retribution in David's mind.   So, he decides to attack Nabal's encampment and kill all the males. Then, David and his men could take all the needed supplies.  Abigail meets David in this vengeful environment.  It is interesting how the  Scriptures describe the exact location of their meeting. The mountain ravine provides a narrow place guaranteeing their coming face-to-face.

• Abigail's Intercession: 

"When Abigail saw David, she hurried and dismounted from her donkey, and fell on her face before David and bowed herself to the ground. 24 She fell at his feet and said, 'On me alone, my lord, be the blame. And please let your maidservant speak to you, and listen to the words of your maidservant. 25 Please do not let my lord pay attention to this worthless man, Nabal, for as his name is, so is he. Nabal is his name and folly is with him; but I your maidservant did not see the young men of my lord whom you sent.'"  (1 Samuel 25:23-25)

Abigail's action proved her wisdom and determination.  This is a make-or-break situation.   She acknowledged that to stop the shedding of innocent blood, she would have to intercept and persuade David of his intended purpose.  I'm sure Nabal deserved David's wrath.  Abigail recognized who David was; a servant of the LORD.  She immediately set out to intercept David carrying generous gifts and provisions.  When she approaches David, Abigail dismounts from her donkey and offers the bow of greatest humility. Instead of remaining on her feet,  she prostrates herself at David's feet. She bowed down to the ground, pleading for her husband's life.  She acknowledged her husband's rude behavior to David and sought grace on his behalf.  Notice her intercession. To ward off the bloodshed and save innocent lives, she asks for the blame to be hers. Though having nothing to do with what took place, she willingly offered herself as the culprit.  Only after setting the stage does she ask David to disregard the words and actions of her husband. What a contrast between Abigail's wise humility and Nabal's foolish pride and arrogance!  Abigail's words in verse 25 indicate her husband is a person who is worthless or without profit. She points out how his name fulfills his actions. A fool makes foolish decisions and choices.  Working as the intercessor and mediator, Abigail says she is different from her husband and that things would have been different.

• Abigail's Counsel:   

"Now therefore, my lord, as the Lord lives, and as your soul lives, since the Lord has restrained you from shedding blood, and from avenging yourself by your own hand, now then let your enemies and those who seek evil against my lord, be as Nabal. 27 Now let this gift which your maidservant has brought to my lord be given to the young men who accompany my lord. 28 Please forgive the transgression of your maidservant; for the Lord will certainly make for my lord an enduring house, because my lord is fighting the battles of the Lord, and evil will not be found in you all your days. 29 Should anyone rise up to pursue you and to seek your life, then the life of my lord shall be bound in the bundle of the living with the Lord your God; but the lives of your enemies He will sling out as from the hollow of a sling. 30 And when the Lord does for my lord according to all the good that He has spoken concerning you, and appoints you ruler over Israel, 31 this will not cause grief or a troubled heart to my lord, both by having shed blood without cause and by my lord having avenged himself. When the Lord deals well with my lord, then remember your maidservant."  (1 Samuel 25:26-31)

Now, a significant shift comes into the conversation. Abigail goes beyond a wife and intercedes for her husband and household. She becomes a messenger of the Lord.  She understands God's purpose and David's future status as king.  In verse 26, she points out to David how the Lord wants to keep him from bloodshed.  It is an example of God's care and protection in David's life. For this reason, the future king should be thankful.  Then she proceeds with a blessing on David (a condemnation of all his enemies in the future).  It did happen during David's reign when he defeated all enemies everywhere. There was peace when Solomon (David's son) took his place as his successor.   Isn't it something that the people you associate with make a difference in life?! In this instance, Abigail wants David's blessing to extend to David's men (v. 27). They, too, have been saved from killing the innocent. She desires David's future success to be poured out on them.

In verse 28, she identifies herself again with her husband's actions as though they were hers. Then she assures David he will become Israel's king. The anointing of at least a decade earlier will be fulfilled. The phrase "an enduring house" speaks of a dynasty. Several years into David's reign, God assures him of an everlasting family member being on the throne (2 Samuel 7).  The Lord would partner with David and help him fight his battles. This didn't take away David's involvement and efforts. David can be assured of  Saul's inability ("29 Should anyone rise up to pursue you and to seek your life, then the life of my lord shall be bound in the bundle of the living with the Lord your God; but the lives of your enemies He will sling out as from the hollow of a sling") to thwart his rise to the throne.  In verse 31, she urges David not to engage in vengeful actions, which would bring considerable grief in the future. David would bear the stain of the blood of innocent victims on his hands. Now, thanks to the intervention of Abigail, he can face the future with a clean heart.  She concludes by requesting David to remember her when he was on his throne.


III.   COURAGE REWARDED:   (1 Samuel 25:32-42)

• David's Acceptance:

"Then David said to Abigail, 'Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, who sent you this day to meet me, 33 and blessed be your discernment, and blessed be you, who have kept me this day from bloodshed and from avenging myself by my own hand. 34 Nevertheless, as the Lord God of Israel lives, who has restrained me from harming you, unless you had come quickly to meet me, surely there would not have been left to Nabal until the morning light as much as one male.' 35 So David received from her hand what she had brought him and said to her, “Go up to your house in peace. See, I have listened to you and granted your request.'"  (1 Samuel 25:32-35)

David responds with an immediate and positive answer to Abigail's plea.  We see a grateful David toward God and then toward Abigail.  David recognizes the hand of God in this situation. He praises this wise and godly woman for taking immediate action and for wanting to stop the bloodshed of innocent lives.  If it had not been for Abigal's wise and prudent intervention, David would have destroyed Nabal and all his household. She stood in the gap, protecting both parties. Her decisive, wise, and careful action makes it possible for others to continue living.  What a remarkable woman of God!  In verse 35, David accepts the provisions brought by Abigail and instructs her to go home in peace. There was nothing to fear. David humbly heeds her words and request.

• Nabal's Death:

"Then Abigail came to Nabal, and behold, he was holding a feast in his house, like the feast of a king. And Nabal’s heart was merry within him, for he was very drunk; so she did not tell him anything at all until the morning light. 37 But in the morning, when the wine had gone out of Nabal, his wife told him these things, and his heart died within him so that he became as a stone. 38 About ten days later, the Lord struck Nabal and he died."  (1 Samuel 25:36-38)

Upon arriving home from intercepting David, Abigail finds it hard to speak to Nabal concerning her actions and David's intent. Nabal is in the middle of a feast celebrating as though he were a king. Perhaps he is celebrating another successful sheep-shearing with the resulting profit. Or he may think of himself as some special person for insulting and dismissing David's messengers. Whatever his reasons, his celebration becomes his last.  The next morning, when he regained his sobriety, Abigail recounts the previous day's events. In verse 37, she tells him the story in detail and most likely repeats the exact words.  Apparently, the stress of his foolishness caused his heart to die, leaving him as a stone. Perhaps he had a heart attack or stroke. He lingers for ten days and then dies. Verse 38 puts Nabal's death in perspective, where God strikes him and takes his life. Nabal's failure was not just his rudeness and greed but his insulting and dismissing of David, God's anointed king of Israel.

• Abigail's Future:

"When David heard that Nabal was dead, he said, 'Blessed be the Lord, who has pleaded the cause of my reproach from the hand of Nabal and has kept back His servant from evil. The Lord has also returned the evildoing of Nabal on his own head.' Then David sent a proposal to Abigail, to take her as his wife. 40 When the servants of David came to Abigail at Carmel, they spoke to her, saying, 'David has sent us to you to take you as his wife' 41 She arose and bowed with her face to the ground and said, 'Behold, your maidservant is a maid to wash the feet of my lord’s servants.' 42 Then Abigail quickly arose, and rode on a donkey, with her five maidens who attended her; and she followed the messengers of David and became his wife.'"  (1 Samuel 25:39-42)

When David hears the news of Nabal's death,  he praises and thanks God for His intervention. He recognizes that Nabal's contempt and insult deserve retaliation, but not in the way he was going to accomplish it. Instead, God allowed Nabal's hasty temper to cause his death.  Wasting no time and without any hesitancy, David begins the negotiations for Abigail to become his wife. Following the custom of sending an intermediary, David sends his servants. However, they aren't really asking, for she is expected to accept. She accepts with great humility. Her bowing and offering to wash the servants' feet show her remarkable character (v. 41). It also shows her willingness to become David's wife.  So Abigail doesn't delay in going to David. She and her five maids immediately join David (v. 42).  Abigail now becomes part of a group that moves from place to place, avoiding the forces of Saul. She will not only be the wife of David but the woman who stopped David from making a disastrous choice is now placed under his loving care. What a beautiful love story!!


CONCLUSION:

Abigail was courageous and a woman of insight.  She was indeed a contrast to the foolish man. She portrays the virtuous wife.  She saved her husband's life and her household.  She met her problems face on and did not delay or worry about them.  In this story, we see hasty anger in full bloom. Anger (especially quick anger) is the root of many grievous sins.  It is dangerous to let this kind of anger linger (Eph. 4:26).  Unchecked anger builds up and corrupts the angry one.  Delaying anger does not make things better. Hasty anger wants to argue and humiliate (Proverbs 25:8).  Arguing leads to strife and quarreling.  It is like a flood of water that breaks the dam.   Therefore, we must stop our anger before it is too late (Prov. 17:14).  Remember that humble pleading is the only wise solution.

You see, Abigail kept a righteous man, David, from making a grave mistake.  Her insight rescued David and those around her.  She understood that her husband's life and everyone in her household was at stake.  She could have run.  Who would have blamed her?  But she was no quitter.  She graciously faced the imminent disaster with determination and godly fear.  Indeed, it took courage and wisdom. You see, courage moves us forward.  It forces us to see what needs to be done and move ahead regardless of the cost and consequences.  It is a trait that is desperately needed and rarely valued. Abigail's insight shines through over and over again in this beautiful story.  Her decision to wait for the right moment to act demonstrates wisdom and great restraint.  True wisdom is rare these days.  James defines wisdom as,

"Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. 16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. 18 And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace."  (James 3:13-18)

Indeed, Abigail showed this kind of wisdom with her words and actions.  She was an intelligent and beautiful woman (1 Samuel 25:3).  Proverbs 31 reveals the source of Abigail's true beauty, "Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised."  (Proverbs 31:30)  Her example teaches and inspires us to be women of true beauty, godliness, wisdom, intelligence, and understanding.  She is rewarded for her godly character and integrity as David recognizes her beauty and wise counsel.  She is humble, not allowing herself to be arrogant.  She is a woman of a sweet submissive spirit.  A woman who fears and submits to God's ways will be exalted (James 4:10).


So, let us consider Abigail's cycle and example of WISDOM, INSIGHT:

• Abigail realized and acknowledged that David was a godly man.  She also believed in what her God Jehovah was capable of doing.  "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."  Proverbs 9:10

• Abigail avoided conflict.  "A wise man is cautious and turns away from evil, but a fool is arrogant and careless."  Proverbs 14:16

• Abigail purposed in her heart to go secretly or quietly about resolving the problem or crisis.  That is, she resolved the conflict wisely.  "A fool always loses his temper, but a wise man holds it back ."  Proverbs 29:11

• She put her wisdom and understanding into action and offered generous gifts to David.  "He who gathers in summer is a son who acts wisely, but he who sleeps in harvest is a son who acts shamefully."   Proverbs 10:5

• She definitely reaped the rewards that come to those who are wise.  "The wise will inherit honor, but fools display dishonor."  Proverbs 3:35

Abigail seized the information given, understood what needed to be done, and then did it. Abigail's life speaks loudly of her godly conduct and wisdom, which impacted the lives of others.  Because of her insight, wisdom, and prudence, she protected the life of her husband Nabal and the man who later became her husband.  

"A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger."  (Proverbs 15:1)

How do you respond to an angry (full of wrath) person?  Do you respond positively, negatively, pleasantly, or bitterly?  Do you respond gently, yielding, and peaceably or do you cause more bitterness and anger?

"A soft answer" is not a sign of weakness.  The most compelling and helpful answer is offered in the mildest tone. And although the substance might be firm, the tone of speech and spirit is gentle. Such an answer is hard to resent or refute.  Wrath is turned away when we use a soft answer.  Anger is silenced.  Negative emotions and attitudes cannot burn without fuel to feed them.  So, what are the effects of using grievous or bitter words? Only hatred, cruelty, and misery.  Remember that bitterness is stronger than wrath. And while rage thunders, bitterness stabs. It creates more ill will than the angry words that provoke it.  Let this sink deeply into your hearts!

The example of Abigail has moved me to compose the following poem.

A SOFT ANSWER 

By Luci Y. Partain

Words, words, words…

What are words for?

You are what you think about all day long,

And your words “spill the beans!”

For words, disclose the hidden man.

The heart filled with jealousy

Drowns in harsh and unkind words 

And drives friends apart!

Soft words quench the raging fire,

Before it grows!

But the seeds of anger stir it up,

And cause a great fall.

Your friend can hear you better,

If you speak with a gentle voice.

For understanding and loving-kindness

Are a strain of music,

Worthy of the harps above!

Diamonds and precious jewels

Cannot compare with the soulful beauty

That lights the face with grace and meekness of heart.

Let the words of my mouth be soft, my Lord,

And let them be a balm that heals,

Answers that forgive instead of swords

That pierce the heart!

Let my words be like honey, my Lord,

Sweet to the hurting heart,

Soothing oil to the boiling anger.

O that my words may be soft, my Lord,

Not harsh, bruising the wounded soul.

For to speak gently is far better, 

And to rule by love than humiliation. 

 For harsh words may mar

The good I might do here!

Love doth whisper low

The vows that bind true friendship;

The voice of affection is kind.

So let me speak gently to both young and old,

For they have enough to bear --

As they walk their anxious path

Doing the best they can!

Let me speak gently and grieve not 

The care-worn heart;

For the sands of life are nearly spent,

Let me speak gently to the poor, 

And silence the harsh tone;

For their burden is already heavy, 

With few kind words to comfort them!

Let me speak gently to the erring, for we know
Perchance unkindness made them so;

O that I may win them back again!

Let me speak gently! 

For He who gave His life

Brought healing to my stubborn heart,

And said to me, 'Peace, be still.'

Let me speak gently! -- 'tis a little thing

Discarded in the heart's deep well;

For the good, the joy may bring,

Eternity shall tell. 

Oh, may you gently speak soft words

With all the ones you meet?

May Jesus' kind and gentle words,

Calm and rule the angry heart.

For anger will only break the heart,

But the fragrance of our words  

Will spread as the sweetness of a rose!

May the LORD help us to have Abigail's insight so that we may avoid conflict among ourselves and others and sow blessings instead.

Luci