Other

---

A Paradox
   Proverb 1:7 says “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.”
   King David said, “My flesh trembles in fear of You.”
   Why would David fear God? I’ve heard it preached many times that the fear spoken of in the Word is a loving reverence for God; and I’m sure we all agree with that. But I think there is more that we need to think about when we talk of fearing God.
    Isaiah says in 45:7 that “God causes disasters.” Have you ever heard that preached from the pulpit? God causes disasters? Isn’t it usually blamed on the devil? I think we give him too much credit.
   But think about it; think of the Exodus… God hardened Pharaoh’s heart. He caused the rivers to turn to blood and the fish died and the water smelled so bad they couldn’t drink it. God sent hail; it was the worst storm in all the land of Egypt. He caused great swarms of insects to destroy their crops and, finally, God said… “I will pass through Egypt and strike down every first born” which included Pharaoh’s son.
   Throughout the entire Old Testament God is bringing destruction on those who disobey Him; on His enemies; the enemies of His people. He even brought destruction on His own people for disobedience. One example is when Moses came down from Mt. Sanai and found that they had molded a golden calf for worship. God caused 3,000 of them to be slaughtered by the sword.
   But God is love! Yes, God loves the world (John 3:16) but He hates, “haughty eyes, lying tongues, hands that shed innocent blood, hearts that devise wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, liars, and anyone who causes trouble among His chosen people..” (Proverbs 6:16-19)
   God has proven that He will do whatever it takes to save His chosen people. He turns rivers into blood and sends swarms of insects to destroy His enemy’s crops; and He even crucified His own Son.
   Yes, God caused the crucifixion of Christ. Romans 5:8 tells us that God demonstrates His love for us because “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Yes, the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was God’s plan. He caused that disaster to prove His love.
   And if you believe that, you can find it easy to love God.
   But, if you don’t believe; if you reject Him; you better fear Him for what He can do because He will destroy you. (Revelation 21:8)
   Fear God/Love God – a true paradox.
   
Pray: You are my portion, O Lord; I seek your face with all my heart. Be gracious to me according to Your promise of eternal life. I have considered my ways and I turn my steps to Your commands. Accept this, O Lord, as my prayer of repentance and fill me with Your Holy Spirit.

---

PLEASE ENCOURAGE AUTHOR BELOW LEAVE COMMENT ON ARTICLE AS A MEMBER OR VISITOR