Proverbs 19:23 The fear of the LORD tends to life: and he that has it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.
‘The fear of the LORD.’ The phrase means reverence, awe, and submission to God, a recognition of His holiness, authority, and majesty. It is not mere dread but a loving respect that produces obedience. This “fear” is the foundation of wisdom (1:7; 9:10).
The fear of the LORD is not a burden but a blessing. It leads to [1] Life – eternal and abundant (14:27; John 17:3) – it directs a person away from sin and toward God’s way of salvation. Reverence for God opens the heart to faith, repentance, and ultimately life everlasting. [2] Peace – inner contentment (Ps. 34:9-10; Php. 4:11-13) – Fear of the LORD brings contentment and peace of soul. Godly fear anchors the heart in God’s sufficiency, freeing one from restless craving. [3] Safety – freedom from destructive evil (16:6; Ps. 91:9-10). The sense is protection from ultimate harm, not necessarily freedom from trials, but from destructive consequences and divine judgment. Godly fear restrains sin, shields from satan’s snares, and keeps one safe in God’s will.
Living the Word 