Fear of the Lord

Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
Proverbs 1:23
If you had responded to my rebuke,
I would have poured out my heart to you
and made my thoughts known to you.
Proverbs 2:6-9
For the LORD gives wisdom,
and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
He holds victory in store for the upright,
he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,
for he guards the course of the just
and protects the way of his faithful ones.
Then you will understand what is right and just
and fair—every good path.

All wisdom, knowledge, security and provision is founded on the fear of the Lord. To fear the Lord begins with a right, healthy, holy and overwhelming sense of God's character and is critical for hearing his rebuke and turning from evil. It is significant to notice that rebuke follows the fear of the Lord, not righteousness. This passage presumes that we all sin and are tempted into sin. The fear of the Lord enables us to respond to God's rebuke and receive His Spirit, wisdom, knowledge and understanding. When we respond in reverence and repentance these blessings are the result; righteousness is the ultimate outcome. Then, and only then, will we be able to discern justice, equity and every good path.
So, how much do I fear the Lord? How right, healthy, holy and overwhelming is my sense of God's character? How well do I respond to His rebuke?

Most Holy God, deepen my understanding of who You are that I may learn to fear You. May I tremble and turn at Your rebuke. Humble me and let me come to know wisdom, righteousness, justice, equity and every good path. Amen.