“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). The word “fear” in this sense does not mean “afraid,” as if we were left cowering in the fetal position, terrified that we are going to hell or that we are at the mercy of a capricious and vengeful God. The original hearers would have understood the phrase “the fear of the Lord” to mean holding a deep reverence, respect, love, and willingness to follow God’s guidance. Holy Wisdom is generous, welcoming, and persistent. All are welcome. There are no prerequisite classes to take, no degrees, no income verification. Just enter! You have a place at the table.
Together, we can consider our faithful response to Wisdom’s invitation.
This message is excerpted from the Bible study “Just L.I.F.E (Liberation is for Everyone!)” by Angela Khabeb in the June 2021 Gather magazine.
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