Raising Wise Children

14 (Deuteronomy 10:12, NIV). Here, it is clear that “this ‘fear’ is not distrustful terror of God, but rather the reverent awe and worshipful response of faith to the God who reveals Himself as Creator, Savior, and Judge.” 3 Clearly, “the dominant aspect is loyalty to the Lord as the God of the covenant, with the corresponding honor that is due to him.” 4 In his book, Opening Up Proverbs , J. Newheiser writes: To fear God is to regard God with reverent awe. He alone is holy, awesome, and glorious (Isa. 6:3). He is worthy of our respect. Because God is righteous, we should be concerned about the consequences of displeasing him. Our fear is not one which leaves us cowering and terrified but rather is like the respect a son should have towards his father. The fear of God leads to wise and pure living: ‘By the fear of the LORD one keeps away from evil’ (Prov. 16:6b).