Fear Redefined

There is fear that torments unbelievers and there is fear that blesses believers. For those who receive Jesus, fear is different and has different definitions.

1 John 4:18: There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

The fear in the passage above comes from a Greek word. The fear in the following Old Testament passages is a Hebrew word. The meanings are not identical. The New Testament word means to be put in fear, alarm or fright, terror. The Old Testament word means fear morally or reverence.

Proverbs 14:26: In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.

This fear is confident. God*s children who have this kind of fear are in a place of protection. The place of protection is confidence or faith.

Proverbs 14:27: The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

This fear is a source of life and not being snared into death.

Proverbs 15:16: Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith.

This fear is better than wealth and the troubles that come with that.

Isaiah 33:6: And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation: the fear of the LORD is his treasure.

This fear is connected to wisdom and knowledge and will give us stability and strength in our lives. It is a treasure.

Which kind of fear do you have?

Care to discuss Fear Redefined with Ron?

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