And finally,
The ultimate Source of Fear has made us fearless.
Ps 27:1
Rom 8:14,15
2 Tim 1:7
Yes, the objects of fear in these verses are temporal, but in light of our discussion, doesn't it seem significant that God has become our ally and protector?
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2 comments:
Fear by Proxy.
My head will soon explode (slang for “This is a very thought provoking subject”), but just before that happens I thought I would share this as is may be another facet to the fear paradigm.
Psalms 40:3 states:
“He will put a new song in my mouth,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord.”
In context this is a result of God’s mercy in lifting David “out of the slimy pit” and setting him on a solid rock. Then David says others will see this, fear, and turn to the Lord. Perhaps this fear is in recognition of God and His awesome power to perform this in David’s life. However, I can’t help but turn to thoughts of pulpit pounding Hell-Fire preaching. Does this not provoke an emotional response? Is God calling you away from hell, or toward Himself? I sat under this type of preaching for many years and saw many responses, but very few true salvation experiences (judging by desire for the Word, fruit in their lives, and the desire to replicate the experience).
Is the fear of hell enough to bring someone to salvation? Or, better asked, Can a person be scared into the saving arms of Jesus? Is hell avoidance a valid form of a call from the Lord to His chosen?
For me this is worth pondering, I do not know the answer, but I enjoy the privilege provided here, to discuss these thoughts openly with you all.
Our God is an awesome God.
Our God is beyond our understanding.
Our God is a good God.
Our God knows our names.
I think it makes little difference if we run to him for mercy because we can't stand the thought of his judgment (read displeasure) or if we run to him out of pure love. As long as the net effect is a restored relationship (read repentance) with our Father in heaven through his son Jesus.
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