In Part 2 of our Wisdom That Works series, we explore one of the most foundational truths for living a wise life: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Pastor Jonathan shares how living in awe, reverence, and obedience to God is the starting point for true wisdom—and how it shapes every area of life.
Psalm 111:10 (ESV) — 10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever!
Proverbs 9:10 (ESV) — 10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.
Proverbs 15:33 (ESV) — 33 The fear of the LORD is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor.
1. See Clearly
The fear of the Lord begins with how you see Him.
Be Careful of Casual
Ask God to help you see Him as the Word Describes Him: Creator, Savior, Judge
2. Worship Regularly
God Centering
Learning the rhythm of fearing the Lord - Deuteronomy 4:10 (NLT) — 10 Never forget the day when you stood before the LORD your God at Mount Sinai, where he told me, ‘Summon the people before me, and I will personally instruct them. Then they will learn to fear me as long as they live, and they will teach their children to fear me also.’
How to practically live a God-oriented life
First in time.
First in Finances.
First in Passion.
3. Obey Completely
The greatest indicator that you walk in the fear of the Lord is if you obey Him.
Isaiah 66:2 (NLT) — 2 My hands have made both heaven and earth; they and everything in them are mine. I, the LORD, have spoken! “I will bless those who have humble and contrite hearts, who tremble at my word.
God equates LOVE with OBEDIENCE!
John 14:15 (NLT) — 15 “If you love me, obey my commandments.
John 14:21 (NLT) — 21 Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.
God equates FEAR of Him with OBEDIENCE.
Genesis 22:12 (NLT) — 12 “Don’t lay a hand on the boy!” the angel said. “Do not hurt him in any way, for now I know that you truly fear God. You have not withheld from me even your son, your only son.”
4. Reap Abundantly
Let’s explore the beautiful promises that come when we fear the Lord:
Protection - Psalm 34:7 (NLT) — 7 For the angel of the LORD is a guard; he surrounds and defends all who fear him.
Provision - Psalm 34:9 (NLT) — 9 Fear the LORD, you his godly people, for those who fear him will have all they need.
Wisdom - Psalm 25:12 (NLT) — 12 Who are those who fear the LORD? He will show them the path they should choose.
Mercy and love - Psalm 103:11 (NLT) — 11 For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth.
Household blessing - Psalm 128:1–4 (NLT) — 1 How joyful are those who fear the LORD— all who follow his ways! 2 You will enjoy the fruit of your labor. How joyful and prosperous you will be! 3 Your wife will be like a fruitful grapevine, flourishing within your home. Your children will be like vigorous young olive trees as they sit around your table.
Prosperity and honor - Proverbs 22:4 (NLT) — 4 True humility and fear of the LORD lead to riches, honor, and long life.
The best one - Psalm 25:14 (ESV) — 14 The friendship of the LORD is for those who fear him, and he makes known to them his covenant.
More from this series
Explore powerful truths from the book of Proverbs and timeless wisdom from throughout the Bible. From relationships to decision-making and spiritual growth, this series is packed with insight for real life.