What does it mean to "fear God"?
The "fear of the LORD" is not cringing terror but reverent awe — a right response to God’s greatness and goodness, the beginning of wisdom, and the soil in which love for him grows.
"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom" (Proverbs 9:10). It is not anxious dread but breath-taking respect — the response of small creatures to a holy God who is also their Father.
Scripture pairs fear and love without contradiction: "How great is your goodness… for those who fear you" (Psalm 31:19). To fear the LORD is to take him with utmost seriousness because he is utterly worthy.
This fear casts out smaller fears. The person who reverently fears God need not fear what others say, what tomorrow holds, or even death. He is bigger.
Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.