Today's Scripture
Philippians 2:12–13 (NKJV)
Colossians 1:10 (AMPC)
Holy fear is not a small side issue in our walk with God. Scripture says our salvation is worked out with fear and trembling. That does not mean we earn salvation. Jesus freely gives salvation by grace. But what He gives freely must be matured faithfully. God works in us, and we respond with surrender, obedience, reverence, and awe. Our relationship with God is worked out intimately as we develop and mature in our unity with Him.
We cannot do anything to make God love us more or less than He already does. His love is settled. His mercy is real. His grace is available. But we are responsible for how pleasing our lives are to Him. Our free will is completely in play. That is why Paul said his aim was to be well pleasing to the Lord. Love removes rejection, but holy fear removes casualness. We do not obey because we are trying to be accepted; we obey because we already belong to Him. Fear and trembling keep our hearts awake. It reminds us that one day we will give an account—not for repented sins washed by the blood of Jesus, but for how we lived as sons and daughters of God.
So, the question is not, “Does God love me?” The answer is yes. The question is, “Is my life pleasing to Him?” Holy fear does not push us away from God. It pulls us into deeper surrender, greater obedience, and a life that honors and reveres His presence.