“Fearing people”—either living afraid of them or putting ultimate hope in them, “is a dangerous trap” (Prov.29:25). But “the fear of the Lord” (an affectionate reverence for God) “is a fountain of life” (Prov.14:27).
Heavenly Father, we don’t understand all your reasons for choosing to seat certain kings (leaders/rulers) and unseat others (Dan. 2:21)—including the most recent presidential election in America. The “secret things” and the hand of providence belong to you (Deut. 29:29).
But we do know you have already installed Jesus as the true and eternal King—and that one Day every knee will bow to him and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord. That Day will bring great glory to you, and eternal joy to us (Phil.2:10-11). Thank you, and Hallelujah!
We also know that peace and laughter, not angst and vexation, fill the courts of heaven as we begin our work week today (Psalm 2:4-6). That is profoundly peace-giving to us as well. So here’s our main ask on Monday, November 11, 2024.
Father, intensify our “fear of the Lord”—that is, take our affectionate reverence for you to a whole new level in these coming weeks and months. The Gospel has freed us from being afraid of you, because you generously presented Jesus our “righteousness, holiness, and redemption” (1Cor.1:30). But grant us a passionate, adoring, unrivaled love for yourself. To fear you isn’t just the beginning of wisdom, Father, it’s the meaning, middle, and goal of wisdom as well.
We’ll never over-love you, Father. We can never have too much awe, respect, adoration, and trust in you. So today, we choose afresh the fountain of life that comes from fearing you, over the dangerous trap of putting too much confidence in men, leaders, and rulers. So Very Amen.