Fear of the Lord - Proverbs 1:7
YouTube Link to Video of the Teaching
SLAP THE KING
As the sun rose over the ancient city of Assyria during the Akitu New-year festival, the king knew that the day held a significant event for him. So, his servants dressed him in his royal robe adorned with gold and precious gems. With his entourage of military guards, advisors, and servants, the king approached the grand Assyrian temple, where the Akitu festival was set to continue.
The temple welcomed the King with thick incense and the sounds of chanting priests. The High Priest briefly greeted the king and removed the king’s crown and robe. Then the High priest grabbed the king of Assyria by the ear and dragged him before the statue of the god Marduk.
As the high priest raised his hand, anticipation grew. The first strike of the priest's open palm against the king's cheek was harder than expected, causing a sharp sting and bringing tears to his eyes. The second and third slaps followed, intensifying the humiliation and pain. The High Priest slapped the king as his tears flowed! The purpose of the "Humbling of the King" ritual was to enhance the power and authority of the priests as gatekeepers to knowledge and wisdom for the empire.
Ancient Egyptian, Babylonian, Assyrian, and Canaanite religions sought wisdom through complex rituals, intermediary priests, and the appeasement of multiple gods. It is in this cultural context that King Solomon of Israel wrote,
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
FEAR OF THE LORD
Let's dwell on this phrase, the "fear of the Lord." It can seem an odd choice of words, can't it? One might think, "Am I to be scared of God?" However, Solomon is not talking about cowering in fright. No, this is something more profound and far more meaningful.
I’ve stood at the edge of the Grand Canyon many times. Thanks to my Uncle Bob McNichols, helicopters (Video) and horses have been my transportation (Video) in and out of the canyon. My family has canoed, hiked through the bottom, and swam several times at Havasu Falls on the Havasupai Lands. I take in that vast, rugged beauty before me during each excursion and realize how enormous and incredible it is. In comparison, I feel small, awestruck. I also know that if I lose my humility regarding the Canyon’s beauty and power, danger becomes my companion, not because of anything the Canyon does. The threat comes from misjudging my ability in relation to the Canyon’s power!
Examples
Appreciate the grace and power of the Condor’s flight, wise.
Follow the Condor off the edge of the Canyon wall, foolish (video).
The canyon is not scary when I respect it and appreciate its beauty. It is dangerous when I step out of a proper relationship with the Canyon’s power. That's a taste of the "fear of the Lord." It's a sense of awe, a profound respect for God's greatness, and respecting the boundaries set for us.
THE BEGINNING OF KNOWLEDGE
A stream of water was the beginning of the Grand Canyon. This colossal formation didn't appear overnight. The canyon's beauty and depth aren't a product of a single event but a long, continuous process. In the same way, proper awe of God is the starting point for wisdom. Just as the river shaped the canyon, the fear of the Lord shapes us, giving depth and richness to understanding. True wisdom isn't about how much we know on the surface but how deeply we understand and are rooted in our reverence for God. Such depth and majesty take time, patience, and a constant connection with the river of life – our relationship with God.
FOOLS DESPISE WISDOM AND INSTRUCTION
The second half of the verse contrasts those who possess this fear of the Lord with those who despise wisdom and instruction. Imagine setting off on this challenging hike from the top of the canyon to Havasu Falls without a Havasupai guide or trail markers. How soon would we lose our path, wander astray, or run out of water? Unfortunately, some choose to reject this wisdom and instruction. The outcome is destruction and negative consequences.
This brings us to a vital point: despising God’s wisdom and instruction is an act of hubris. Embracing the fear of the Lord requires humility. It's acknowledging that his wisdom surpasses human understanding. When we stand in humility, in awe of the power and beauty of God, that's when true wisdom begins.
JESUS SHOWED US
For all of the Nations surrounding King Solomon, political fear of the High Priests and terror of the false gods were the pathway to knowledge. But now compare that to the life of Jesus, which exemplified this perfect balance of reverence, obedience, and love for God the Father.
Take your mind back to that simple Galilean hillside, where Jesus proclaimed, "Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). These aren't the words of someone trying to win a popularity contest. They're the words of someone radically committed to the Father's will, embodying a heavenly standard of love and goodness. In His life and teachings, Jesus shows a profound respect for the Father's commands and a heart overflowing with divine love. That's fear of the Lord.
Now, picture the scene in the Garden of Gethsemane. There, under the olive trees, our Savior wrestles with the impending cross, the looming specter of the world's sin about to be placed on His shoulders. He prays earnestly, "Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done" (Luke 22:42). It's not just about obedience. It's about profound reverence for the Father's plan and His divine wisdom. It's about willingly submitting to God's authority, regardless of the personal cost. That's fear of the Lord.
Jesus Christ embodied Proverbs 1:7. He shows us that this holy fear is born not of terror but of love, reverence, and the humble submission of a heart tuned to the Father's will. He invites us to follow in His footsteps, to live out this perfect balance of love, obedience, and reverence for God. Will we accept His invitation?
A PROVERBS 1:7 FAMILY
Let me tell you what a Proverbs 1:7 family looks like. The parents, former athletes, and current high school coaches impart their passion for sports and skills to their 12 and 16-year-old kids, Ellie and Ethan. Every day, they commit to training on the basketball court and swimming pool, pushing the boundaries of their physical excellence.
What distinguishes this family from many other sports-centric families, though, is their deep, unwavering faith. The family is committed to serving and participating in the life of the church. Despite their demanding sports routines, they consistently honor God's call. Despite their busy training schedules, Mom and Dad ensure Ellie and Ethan understand the importance of spiritual nourishment and church community. Our worship gatherings, youth group nights, and serving events often see the enthusiastic participation of these two young souls.
Ethan asked his dad one day, "Dad, why do we go to church and serve people every week, even when we have important matches or practices?"
His dad replied, "While sports teach us discipline and strengthen our bodies, our faith strengthens our souls, teaching us love, humility, and community. We must grow both physically and spiritually."
It's a joy to witness Proverbs 1:7 households like this one, not only buzzing with sounds of athletic, academic, or business pursuits but also echoing with prayers, biblical discussions, and the love and guidance of God. These families are a testament to the fact that excellence in sports, business, or school and unwavering faith in God can and do indeed coexist.
“While sports teach us discipline and strengthen our bodies, our faith strengthens our souls, teaching us love, humility, and community. We must grow both physically and spiritually.”
BONUS APPLICATION OF PROVERBS 1:7
Pursuit of Knowledge Rooted in Faith: We prioritize intellectual pursuits and academic achievements while recognizing that our knowledge is a gift from God. We seek to integrate our secular education with spiritual growth, understanding that true wisdom comes from the fear (awe, respect, wonder) of the Lord.
Reverence and Respect for God's Presence: We approach church life and ministry with humility and awe, recognizing our church family as the visible body of Christ. We revere God's holiness and sovereignty in our worship and interactions within the church community.
Embracing Godly Wisdom: We prioritize seeking God's wisdom and guidance from His Word and Godly mentors. We submit to the teachings of the Bible and apply its principles to our lives, seeking to discern God's will in all situations.
Making Wise Decisions: Guided by our faith, we prioritize honesty, integrity, and love for others, making choices that honor God and serve our church and community well.
Consistent Prayer and Worship: We prioritize constant and heartfelt prayer and worship individually and as a part of our church community. We seek God's presence and guidance, understanding the significance of prayer and worship in deepening our relationship.
Living with Authenticity: We strive to live out our faith genuinely, demonstrating consistency between our beliefs and actions. We prioritize displaying Christ-like character within our church and beyond, seeking to be a positive example to others.
©2023 Greg McNichols, All rights reserved.
