Godly Fear

Godly Fear

“But godly fear is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.” 1 Tim. 4:8.

We can learn from Israel. If they kept God’s law, they obtained earthly riches; but if they transgressed God’s law, they became poor in earthly things. This is why they had to wander, exiled from their land, and were persecuted. Deut. 29:24-28.

There are a multitude of different religions, and it is noteworthy that none of these various religions are accompanied by economic development. Christianity alone provides economic development. Godly fear has promises for the life that now is and for that which is to come.

There are many countries in our days that are called underdeveloped countries. When we consider their religion, it is plain that what they believe has not helped them. But when we reflect on those countries that give aid to these underdeveloped countries, we realize that they have all acknowledged Christianity as their religion; i.e., they have based their constitution on the Ten Commandments. That has given them a civilized society and economic progress, and one of the first things missionaries do when they arrive on the mission field is to build schools and hospitals.

We can also consider the so-called Christian countries. There is also a big difference between them according to how seriously they have taken their Christianity. We can clearly see that where the Greek Catholic and the Roman Catholic churches have authority, and the more lavishly the churches and cloisters are furnished, the poorer the people are.

You who read this most likely know several unhappy people; perhaps you are unhappy yourself. Then you should ask yourself this question: “Am I unhappy because I have obeyed God’s commandments: ‘You shall not lie!’ ‘You shall not commit adultery!’ ‘You shall not steal or covet your neighbor’s goods!’” etc.? Or am I unhappy because I have not kept these commandments?

Jesus says: Follow Me! I am the light of the world! Take up your cross daily and deny yourself! Then you can ask yourself: “Am I unhappy because I have followed Jesus or because I did not follow Him?” If you are honest with yourself, you will quickly come to the acknowledgment of the truth. Then you will also soon realize that the fear of God has promises for the life that now is and for the life that is to come. By being God-fearing you will have a good conscience, have good friends and be certain in your heart of eternal life together with Jesus and all the saints.

You are angry because people are egotists and lie to you. How can you have different friends and different company if you yourself lie and seek your own? Turn away from your wretched life, and you will gain good company and true friends. You need never more become bitter with people! When you do to others what you want them to do to you, you will have likeminded friends and be happy for time and eternity.

Blessed is he who believes, for he shall see God’s glory. You cannot wait for other people to become good. You have to begin yourself by being good and giving up all demands on other people. Then you will experience the truth of God’s Word and see His glory.