Contemplative Bible Reading

Ecclesiastes 12:13 (New Living Translation)

That’s the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty.

There is much that can be written about fearing God. For today, let’s consider it in light of the rest of the sentence: obey his commands.

I should be afraid of rebelling against the “commands” of God. I should fear the consequences of stealing. I should fear the consequences of murder. I should fear the consequences of worshiping other gods.

Now let’s move to the less obvious but more prevalent. I should fear the consequences of hating other persons instead of loving them. I should fear the consequences of a drunken and drugged life. I should fear the consequences of not caring for my spouse and progeny.

I can make a much longer list. I hope we all understand the concept. God has given commands, guidance, and just plain good advice to us. We don’t have to obey or heed these. We can do otherwise. I hope we consider the consequences of ignoring the Creator.

Please God, hope me to fear you and obey your commands. Help me in my unbelief.