The fear of God is, for some, difficult to understand. Throughout the entire Bible, believers are told to have no fear. At the same time we are told to fear God. 

We live in a time of fear. Wars, terrorism, political upheaval, persecution, and the threat of pandemics; who wouldn’t fear?

This passage, in Matthew 10, puts things into perspective. The world is evil, and, yes, there are those who might be able to destroy the flesh, and take your life. They don’t, however, have the ability to destroy your soul (or spirit). 

Only God has the power to destroy both body and soul, and that He reserved for those who chose hell over an eternity in heaven. 

Those who avoid hell are those whose fear of God compel them to surrender to Him. 

The fear of God that leads to salvation does not remain fear. In the verses that follow Christ’s warning to fear God, He describes the love and protection afforded those who fear God. 

“Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” Matthew 10:29-30 NIV

Fear of God grows into love of God, and then grows into obedience to God. Because of God’s divine hand of protection of our soul, we no longer fear those who can kill only the soul. 

Why does God protect the souls of those who fear Him? Because He loves us. 

Why do we grow to love and obey God? Because He first loved us. 

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death

Your perfect love is casting out fear

And even when I’m caught in the middle of the storms of this life

I won’t turn back

I know you are near

And I will fear no evil

For my God is with me

And if my God is with me

Whom then shall I fear?

Whom then shall I fear?

Oh no, You never let go

Through the calm and through the storm

Oh no, You never let go

In every high and every low

Oh no, You never let go

Lord, You never let go of me

– Matt Redman