THE FEAR OF GOD by Central Christian Advocate

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Dec 29, 1887

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 13, No. 50.

THE FEAR OF GOD.

By Central Christian Advocate

Ordinarily when the fear of God is spoken of as an element of the spiritual life, we do not mean that fear of punishment which has a proper place in human and divine government, but the high regard of a noble nature for those to whom it is related by birth and association. Instead of producing a sense of degradation or servile inferiority, its natural tendency is to elevate and purify one's nature. This is really the crown of the highest culture in the best human society, and beautifies the purest earthly relations. To be well persuaded that God is our Father, and he cares for us in the commonest things, and is making all things work together for our good, should produce the most exquisite sensitiveness lest anything should come into our lives that might displease him. To walk in the light of his countenance is altogether different from hiding from him because we have been disobedient and rebellious. The wicked have need to fear God as one who will not pass by evil doing; but in God's children love has cast out all fear of this sort.—Central Christian Advocate.