My jogging partner and I ran the Race for Literacy this morning. We weren't sure if we'd make it to church after. I am so glad we did! We were late but made it in time for the sermon.
Stephen preached 1 Peter 3:8-18 with a reference to Psalm 39:7 But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you. He also referenced Isaiah 8:13 The Lord Almighty is the one you are to regard as holy, he is the one you are to fear, he is the one you are to dread, and he will be a sanctuary
It was interesting to hear how fearing God brings peace and hope. 1 Peter 3: 14 references Isaiah 3: 12 do not fear what they fear and adds do not be frightened.
I realized that I have many fears in my life but God is not consistently one of those fears. Fear is being in awe of God, acknowledging Him as Lord in our life. The example Stephen used was "Jesus you are my Lord not cancer." Fear Jesus instead of cancer. Jesus will fill you with hope. Jesus alone can heal you. It's already clear how the sanctuary piece comes into play. Personally, I've been worrying about money more since I've put myself on a stricter budget (yay tithing). Yet I know God will provide for me so worrying about money is not something I should be doing. I have plenty of safety nets in place. Like the comedian Carlos Mencia was saying, Americans do not know poverty. The poor here are very different than the poor in third-world countries.
By fearing God, I can put Him in control in my life. I can center my life around Him. Would God approve if I said that? Would He support me in this course of action? Or would I receive His wrath had Jesus not died for my sins?
Fearing God and rejoicing in Jesus is the balance in my spiritual life that I feel was lacking. I described it as taking God's grace for granted. Perhaps now I can be more aware of my sins and actually include God in more of my daily decisions. I fearfully submit to His will knowing that He will strengthen me to accept His will and it's challenges. While I continue to sin, I can put forth more effort to choose good.
What are your fears? How can Jesus conquer them for you?
