Friday, August 29, 2008

This Thing Called Fear

British philosopher and Nobel prize winner in literature Bertrand Russel once said that "To conquer fear is the beginning of wisdom". In our society, conquering fear seems a noble endeavor. There is even a popular line of apparel called No Fear, which associates with high risk sports such as Moto X and MMA. Somehow I think this guy missed Russel's point.



The Bible directly contradicts Russel for it says the beginning of wisdom is the fear of the LORD (Psalm 110:10; Proverbs 1:7). Fear is an emotion that influences, even dictates or constrains, our thinking and actions. Wisdom is not a matter of overcoming fear but rather directing it in the proper way. One of the most profound principles I have learned recently is the idea that the fear of man disguises itself as wisdom. In our desire to fit in, be viewed favorably by others, and avoid looking foolish, our faith is often weakened, our vision clouded, and our passion tempered. Our move to Redding from the world's perspective is a dubious decision. How can I move my young family to one of the hottest cities in the world, with no job, miles away from family and friends, to attend a non-accredited ministry training program that most people have never heard of? There are many moments when I am afraid of what others think of me but I am striving to put fear in its proper place- at the feet of God.

"My flesh trembles in fear of you; I stand in awe of your laws." Psalm 119:120






1 comment:

Tony said...

A healthy fear of God is the perfect response to God. After all, He is sovereign (do we not fear out earthly “sovereigns”?). Why is it we fear our earthly rulers (for example, even the government, such as the IRS) than we do our Almighty Father. Is He not almighty? You bring up great points; things which all of us should really think about and question about our lives daily.