Psalm 112:1
“Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who delights greatly in His commandments.”
After a long day at school, David is enjoying a game of football with his friends. However, when the clock strikes 5:30, he quickly says his goodbyes, picks up his bag, and leaves. His parents expect him to be home by 6 pm. He’s not worried that being late would make his parents stop loving or providing for him. Instead, he chooses to obey – even though he would rather stay – in submission to their loving authority.
In the context of today’s verse, what is the fear of the Lord? It’s the acknowledgement of God’s great power. It’s a deep respect for the Great I AM. It is a rightful reverence for His authority. It’s to be in awe of His holiness. It does not mean running away from God in fear, but running toward Him in reverence and adoration.
The second part of the verse says, “…who delights greatly in His commandments.” Following God’s commandments is not optional. While comforting His disciples after supper, Jesus emphasised this truth twice. In John 14:15, He says, “If you love Me, keep My commandments.” Later, in verse 23, He adds, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him.” Following His guidelines cheerfully is how we show our Heavenly Father that we choose Him above everything else (Matthew 6:33).
Let’s choose to follow God, not out of fear but out of the knowledge and awareness of who He is. Let’s obey His commands, not for the sake of mindless religion, but to build an intimate relationship with our Heavenly Father.
And then, enjoy the blessings it brings!
