Proverbs 14:26-27 In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge. The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.
Four blessings of the fear of God: Strong confidence (14:26). A place of refuge – security. Eternal life (14:27). Holiness of life and conduct. To depart from evil through the fear of God is to obtain eternal life.
Seven examples of strong confidence: Abraham (Gen. 22:3-10; Heb. 11:19). David (1Sam. 30:6). Hezekiah (2Chr. 32:7-8, 22). Three Hebrew children (Dan. 3:17-27). Habakkuk (Hab. 3:17-19). Peter (Acts 12:6). Paul (2Tim. 4:6-8).
To fear the LORD thy God is not because of the dread of a vengeful Being ready to punish man for the least infraction of His law. Rather, it has to do with respect and reverence for God as Father and Benefactor. Men must learn to respect God as the Lawgiver and Judge, keeping in mind the justice of God as well as His mercy and longsuffering. No man can walk with Him safely who has lost the fear of God.
Feared God [Hebrew: yare’] to revere; be afraid of; to have deep respect for (Job 1:1; Ex. 9:20; 1Kin. 18:3; 2Kin. 17:32-34, 41). True religion in Scripture is often represented as the fear of God (Pro. 1:7, 29; 2:5; 8:13; 14:26-27; Isa. 11:2; Acts 9:31).
Four things the fear of God is the hatred of: Evil, evil ways, arrogance and pride.
Living the Word 