Fear of the Lord

Matthew 10:28

“And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.”

Jesus is preparing his disciples for their first ministry. With the instructions for their mission, He also prepares them for the rejection they may have to face. They might be hated for representing Christ, They may have to face persecution for proclaiming the Gospel of God. In such a time it is natural to engulf with fear, this fear is a misplaced fear. It is the fear of losing one’s body.
Therefore, Jesus asks them not to fear the ones who kill the body and not the soul. He is suggesting they replace the wrong fear with the right one. He is asking His disciples to reserve their fear for the one who kills both body and soul in hell. This is proper fear.

This fear is not intended to be terrified, or panic but a healthy fear called Godly fear. Godly fear involves great respect and at the same time, it expects that we are mindful of the truth that God is able to destroy those who are against Him.

Our life choices should always reflect Godly priorities. Let us be more vigilant not to lose the soul. Mark 8:36-37 says “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” Let us be careful about our choices and priorities in life. Let us choose God and His way alone.

Father, may we always abide in you and you in us. The choices that we make may it reflect your beauty and your character. May we always put God and His will first. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Blessed Day Ahead.