Fear and Comfort

Acts 9:31b
"And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, they were multiplied."

At first read, these two phrases really struck me as odd; "fear of the Lord" and "comfort of the Holy Spirit." What is most odd is that fear and comfort don't often come from the same source. Yet here, the church is balanced in their walk by God's unique blend of fear and comfort, direction and freedom, correction and consolation. It's almost as if God has two hands stretched out alongside of His wobbly church, tipping it back and forth to keep it upright.

Father, help me to discern and receive both Your correction and consolation, to know both fear and comfort. Teach me to walk daily in this balance and enjoy Your increase in Your church. Amen.