What is the fear of the LORD?
The fear of the LORD is reverent awe of God's holiness and goodness — not terror that runs away, but worship that draws near in honor. Proverbs calls it «the beginning of wisdom.»
Proverbs 1:7 says, «The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge.» It is not anxious dread, but a sober wonder before the holiness, power, and goodness of God. People who fear God take him seriously.
Scripture often pairs the fear of the LORD with love. Deuteronomy 10:12 lists them together: «fear the LORD your God, walk in all his ways, love him.» Right fear and right love are not enemies; they belong together.
Christ has not removed the fear of God; he has perfected it. Hebrews 12 calls Christians to «offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe.» The believer's fear is the fear of a child before a great and good Father.
Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.