What Does “Fear the Lord” Mean?
When the Bible talks about “fearing the Lord,” it doesn’t mean being scared of God in the way you’d fear something harmful or dangerous. Instead, it means to have deep respect, admiration, and awe for God. It’s about recognizing His greatness, power, and love, and letting those feelings guide how you live your life.
What is God Asking From Us?
In Deuteronomy 10:12-22, God is asking the people of Israel to do a few key things:
· Fear the Lord: Show reverence and respect for Him.
· Walk in obedience: Follow God’s ways and live according to His teachings.
· Love Him: Truly care for God with all your heart and soul.
· Serve Him: Dedicate your actions to God and live a life that honors Him.
· Observe His commands: Follow the rules and principles He provides—these are meant to guide us and benefit us, not restrict us.
These requests aren’t burdensome—they are for our own good and to help us live meaningful lives connected to God.
Why Should We Fear and Respect God?
God deserves this respect and love for many reasons:
· He created everything—the heavens, the earth, and all living beings. Everything belongs to Him.
· Despite His immense power, He chooses to love and care for us. He loved the ancestors of Israel and chose their descendants to be His special people.
· He is fair and just, treating everyone equally and showing no favoritism. He doesn’t accept bribes or act unfairly.
· God defends those who are vulnerable, such as orphans and widows. He cares for foreigners by giving them food and clothing.
This reminds us of God’s kindness and compassion, qualities that make Him worthy of our respect and love.
What Does It Mean to “Circumcise Your Hearts”?
In this passage, “circumcise your hearts” means to open your hearts to God and remove stubbornness or resistance. It’s a way of saying, “Stop being hard-headed and resistant to God’s teachings. Be willing to change and grow.” Following God isn’t about outward appearances—it’s about truly being devoted to Him from the inside.
The Call to Love Others
God also asks us to love others, including people who are different from us, like foreigners. Just as God loves and provides for all people, He expects us to show kindness and generosity to others. The passage reminds the Israelites that they were once foreigners in Egypt, so they should empathize and treat others with care.
Why Praise and Hold Fast to God?
The passage concludes by reminding the Israelites of all the amazing things God has done for them. He performed great wonders, multiplied their numbers, and took care of them. God is the one who deserves their praise because He is their protector and provider. Holding fast to Him means staying loyal and committed, even when life gets tough.
A Simple Takeaway
“Fearing the Lord” is about respecting, loving, and trusting God. It’s about living in a way that honors Him and shows care for others. God’s teachings are not just rules but guides for a meaningful, compassionate life. When we follow Him, we find purpose, peace, and connection to something greater than ourselves.
Minister A Francine Green, April 2026
afrancinegreen.com 