Fearing God is one of those phrases we see a lot in scripture but aren't really sure what it means practically. So I took notice when I read that two women named in chapter one of the book of Exodus—Shiphrah and Puah—feared the Lord. They show us what it looks like and what happens when we do.
Fear
God’s Righteous Right Hand Calms Fear
According to a popular Bible app, the most highlighted, bookmarked, and shared verse in the Bible for the past three years is Isaiah 41:10. In context, it reads: But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, you descendants of Abraham my friend, I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, “You are my servant”; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
A Life With God
Since my word for 2023 is with, I enthusiastically dove into "With: Reimagining the way you relate to God" by Skye Jethani. The author’s thesis is, "Our true selves cannot be discovered by living under, over, from, or for God. It is something that will be revealed when we are fully with God."
Moses’s Five Reasons Why Not and God’s Five Assurances
As I prepare for yet another opportunity to deliver God’s message, I am tempted again to fixate on my inadequacies. How ironic that the first message I ever delivered in front of my fellow Christian Education classmates was on Moses's call (Exodus 3–4) and his focus on “I am not” rather than “you are God.”
Be Strengthened by Grace
I feel like I've done a bunch of things wrong lately. I feel like I’ve done something morally wrong. Like I’m a criminal, or a bad person. Like I’ve been caught with my hand in the cookie jar when I never actually put it in. Or accidentally put it in. The fact is I’m a rule follower and I don’t like looking bad.
Scarcity and the Fear of Going Without
“Getting rid of stuff makes me feel lighter,” my daughter-in-law said. Without thinking, I responded, “I don’t believe I’ll have the means to replace something if I let it go so I keep it just in case I might need it.” Even as the words were out of my mouth, my heart knew the truth. I still operate out of a scarcity mindset.
Risk vs. Safety, Fear vs. Trust
I received my Covid-19 vaccines with mixed emotions. Grateful for some form of protection while aware that absolute immunity is not guaranteed. Concerned about the possibility that I subjected myself to unnecessary risk, yet heartened by the prospect of mitigating it.
Contend for the Faith
Conspiracy theories, alternate realities, rash prophecies, disinformation, and big lies are ancient techniques used to create fear—and subsequently claim the only solution to calm it—thus gaining followers. While disturbing in the sociopolitical sphere, I find these especially troubling when supported, spread, or believed by those representing Jesus. How do I respond? What do I focus on amid the myriad speculations, half truths and fake news?
Pondered Treasures 