Fear or Permission?

(Proverbs 13:13 KJV)  Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.

Why would someone fear a “commandment” (4687)?  After all, it is just some words.  We have a saying, “Rules are made to be broken.”  We also have come up with “It is easier to get forgiveness than permission.”  Our entire legal system is based on finding ways around the law.  What is to fear?

He “fears” ( 3372a) because he understands.  If I don’t read the label I don’t know the correct dose.  If I don’t know the correct dose I take or eat what I feel like.  It is like the candy that says on the label, “A fat free food.”  True, but it is all sugar.  If you understand that and have a healthy fear, you are good to go.  If you don’t, watch out.

So?  Understand and fear the standards and commands of God.  That will help you grasp the awesome glory of grace and forgiveness.  It will encourage you to embrace the obedience of a righteous life.  It will bring eternity within reach.