August 25, 2011

Proverbs 14:19-35 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Luke 18:31-43, Titus 1:10-16, Esther 3

Journal Entry

Scripture

"In the fear of the Lord one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge." (Proverbs 14:26)

Observation

One of the key themes in the book of Proverbs is "the fear of the Lord." This phrase was continuously repeated by Solomon in this book, starting with chapter 1:7, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge." The starting point of living a wise and godly life is the heart that fears and reveres God. This is a heart that recognizes, worships, and humbly serves the Almighty God. The opposite is the heart that is full of arrogance and pride, always recognizing his/her own strength and finding confidence in himself (or herself). In Proverbs 14:26, Solomon points out that those who fear the Lord find their confidence in the Lord. They are bold and confident because of their unshakable trust in the unchanging character of God. When people live out that kind of God-fearing life, their legacy extends even to their children, who find their refuge in the Lord.

Application

As I come back from a mission field, I think of many genuine worshipers whose hearts were simply devoted to the Lord. The Mongolian believers that I witnessed were passionate about their worship; they didn't just worship the Lord with their lips, but with their hearts. They may not possess much in this world, but they have what it takes to live a life pleasing to the Lord -- that is the fear of the Lord. I was amazed and blessed by their strong confidence, found in Christ and Christ alone. Their simple, yet bold faith humbled me and touched my heart deeply with an assurance that the Lord would bless them from generation to generation.

Prayer

Lord, thank you for teaching me once again that my life must start with You. As I recognize You as my rock, my redeemer, and my God, let my heart desire You above all else. Forgive me Lord when I find my confidence in myself, instead of You. Only when I fear You, I am ready to live a life pleasing to You. May my heart of worship become the message I proclaim, starting with my family and my church. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

--Stephen Han