CAN’T STOP, WON’T STOP
Psalm 112:1 (NLT)
How joyful are those who fear the Lord and delight in obeying His commands.
The fear of the Lord seems to be an often challenging phrase and concept. I certainly don’t fully grasp it either. I’ve heard a variety of definitions and explanations – awe, respect, and honor; caring more about what God says than what anyone else says; loving what God loves and hating what He hates (like sin, evil, injustice). All of it seems to encompass living life God’s way rather than our own.
This whole chapter lists off benefit after benefit for those who respect God enough to get to know Him, read His words to us in the Bible, and find joy in obeying Him. The benefits are significant – successful children, abundant provision, light in dark situations, no dread of bad news, fearless confidence, good reputation, influence, and honor, to name a few. I’ve heard it said that if God didn’t do one more thing for me, all He’s done to this point is more than enough reason to follow Him for the rest of my life. I couldn’t agree more! The thing is, God is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). He can’t and won’t stop being Himself. He is and always will be good, trustworthy, light, protective, faithful, and generous. He is worthy of our lives, our attention, and our obedience. And so very graciously, we benefit in every way from living life His way. That’s how I want to live!
PRAYER
God, You are the King of kings and Lord of lords. You are worthy of my life, and I gladly give it to You. Thank You so much for being perfectly consistent. Thank You for all the benefits that come from living life Your way. I want to honor You today.