“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.” Proverbs 1:7
This world has always been full of people who know a lot of stuff. Throughout history really smart men and women have lived and contributed amazing things to society. Imagine possessing the combined knowledge and understanding of Galileo, Confucius, Isaac Newton, Alexander Graham Bell, Albert Einstein, and Stephen Hawking…talk about breezing through school! Having all this knowledge would really impress a lot of people, but what about God? Would He be impressed? The Bible declares that “The fool says in his heart there is no God.” (Psalm 14:1) What does this tell us? Well, according to God’s Word, you can be the smartest person on planet earth, but if you don’t believe in Him…you’re still an idiot. How many geniuses have lived and died as fools?
You may or may not have made good grades in school. You may or may not be a whiz in math or science. You may or may not be able to explain what a market economy is or how nuclear fusion works, but if you fear and trust in God then the Bible says you have begun to be wise. Truly being smart begins with fearing God.
Now you may be asking why the Bible says we need to fear God? Does God want us scared and afraid of Him like the boogeyman? The answer is NO. The Bible is talking about reverent fear, which is an attitude of awestruck wonder and humble submission. Reverent fear understands that because God made us, He has the power and the right to unmake us if He so chooses. We exist only because of Him and therefore we’re in awe and wonder and fear of Him. Why is this fear important? Because this fear leads us to see ourselves for who we truly are – created beings with limited power and understanding and under the authority of our Creator. Only when we see ourselves this way will we live as unto the Lord and not ourselves. Only then will we do everything in life (from eating to sleeping, working to playing) with an attitude of thanksgiving and for the glory of God our Maker. Any other life – no matter the success and accomplishments – fame and status – riches and wealth – contributions and praises – any other life…is foolish.
Jesus put it this way: “What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet loses his soul?” Matthew 16:26
"Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil." Proverbs 3:7
GOD OF TRUE KNOWLEDGE, ONLY YOU CAN MAKE ME WISE. HELP ME TO ALWAYS SEE MYSELF IN THE LIGHT OF YOUR TRUTH. FILL ME WITH WISDOM SO THAT I MAY LIVE A LIFE THAT REALLY MATTERS. I WANT TO BRING YOU GLORY AND LEAD OTHERS TO YOU.