"In the fear of the Lord one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge. The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death." - Proverbs 14:26-27
There has always been an anti-God tendency in the World. In fact that pretty much defines what we call the “World:” it’s the sum of all the human hearts in rebellion against God, working together to reject Him.
So the World calls into question every command from God, expresses doubt about His promises, and questions or rejects His very existence. Then it turns and mocks anyone who believes in Him, trusts in His promises and respects His commands. To the unbelieving World, the fear of God and all who practice it are objects of ridicule.
But those who fear, love, and trust in God find confidence, because God is there and He keeps His Word. Like any other aspect of the real world, you may reject it but you do so at your own peril. Denying the reality of a brick wall and even mocking the idea of it won’t make it any less real when you smash into it.
Believing in God, trusting in His promises, and turning away from sin because we fear the very real consequences of disobedience to His Law will keep us and our children safe while everyone around us blunders blindly into the brick-wall reality of God.
Knowing that God keeps His promises and that He forgives us for Jesus’ sake enables us to walk with confidence in all the dangers of this life and ignore the mockery of this World. We are safe in Jesus, no matter what comes.
Lord God, You have revealed Yourself to be good, faithful, and trustworthy. Thank You for the confidence I can have in You and in Your Holy Word. Keep me close, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastor Dan Giles