Respect or Fear?

The Warriors and Cavs are developing a very compelling rivalry while playing against each other in back to back Finals. Throughout the series, words have been exchanged on and off the floor and play has gotten heated thanks to some hard fouls (called and not-called). The Warriors have made some negative comments about LeBron to the media, and have also called him mean names on the court. They have shown little regard for LeBron being one of the best, if not the best, players in the world. When recently listening to Reggie Miller being interviewed by Dan Patrick, he made a very revealing comment: “The Warriors respect LeBron, but they don't fear him.” He went on to say how the Warriors respect LeBron’s resume and accomplishments but don’t fear that he will come out and dominate as Michael Jordan did. I agree with Reggie Miller because the Warriors haven’t backed down from LeBron, and haven’t appeared afraid that he will drop 50 points on them. This insight brings to mind what our fear of God looks like. Generally speaking, people respect God and those who believe in God, but there isn’t a deep understanding of what it means to truly fear Him. There should be fear in knowing that God is powerful and just, and if we don’t receive Jesus we will spend eternity separated from Him. As followers of Jesus, we should possess a profound fear or awe of the God of the universe and never downplay His power, greatness, and perfection. Psalm 33:8 (ESV) says, “Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him!” Let’s be challenged to consider our view of God and how we treat His word…His creation…His people… and His son, Jesus. Do we just settle for respect...or do we truly fear God with awe, amazement, and wonder? Today as we reflect on our response to this question, let’s remember Psalm 86:11 (ESV): “Teach me Your way, O Lord, that I may walk in Your truth; unite my heart to fear Your Name.” I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that! PRAYER: Heavenly Father, forgive me for my lack of fear, awe, and amazement of your goodness, faithfulness, grace, and mercy. You deserve all of my praise and honor. Help me to have a deeper understanding of what it looks like to have a proper view and a right fear of You. Thank you for loving me the way You do. In Jesus’ matchless name I pray, Amen.