What Does It Mean to Fear God?

Melea (grade 5) asked, “In the Bible it says to fear God, but it also says to not be afraid. How can you fear God and not be afraid?” Thanks for your question, Melea! Let’s look to God’s Word for answers.

Fear

Being afraid came as a result of Adam and Eve’s sin. After they disobeyed God, Adam told God, “I heard the sound of you in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked, and I hid myself” (Genesis 3:10).

Adam and Eve’s sin brought shame, suffering, danger, and death into the world. Now, sometimes we feel afraid. But we can be brave because God is always with us. Psalm 23:4 says, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

When you’re afraid, it might help you feel brave to read comforting Bible verses, sing praise and worship songs, pray, and talk to your parents or a friend about why you feel fearful.

“Fear God”

Fearing God is different than being scared. Instead, fearing God means having reverence, admiration, respect, and awe for him as our Lord and Father.

Imagine one day you saw your favorite imaginary superhero in real life, walking down the street. You’d probably feel awestruck. You might not know what to say to him or her.

Fearing God is kind of like that, except God is real, and he is always with you. God’s power, justice, and holiness should cause us to feel awe and respect for him. His greatness should make us want to praise him.

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