Walking in the Fear of the Lord: The Church at Peace
- Baptist Daily Devotional
- 1 day ago
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Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | May 30 2025 | Acts 9:27-31
KEY VERSE: “Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers" Acts 9:31 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
After Saul’s transformation and the easing of persecution, the church experienced a season of peace and growth. Their foundation was the fear of the Lord—a reverent awe and devotion to God. This deep respect, coupled with the encouragement of the Holy Spirit, brought strength and unity to the believers.
As individuals and as a church, living in the fear of the Lord fosters humility and dependence on Him. It reminds us to prioritise God’s will over our own and rely on His Spirit for guidance and encouragement. Seasons of peace are opportunities for spiritual growth and preparation for the challenges ahead.
The church today is losing its way. We are gradually losing our reverent fear of God and the things of God. This contributes to the current condition of the church. Believers must pray for a renewed sense of reverence for God in our lives.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
What role are you playing to ensure that the Church is at peace? What actions can you take to facilitate the reverent fear of God return to the church? Is your acting and inaction contributing to the peace of the church? Re-evaluate your actions.
PRAYER:
Lord, teach me to live in awe of You. May Your Spirit strengthen and encourage me to walk faithfully and bring glory to Your name.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 150: 1 Samuel 12 - Samuel’s Farewell Speech
DAILY word study: THE FEAR OF THE LORD The Greek word translated as “fear” in Acts 9:31 is phobos, derived from the verb phobeō, meaning “to put to flight” or “to terrify.” While phobos can imply fear or dread, in the New Testament—especially when tied to God—it refers to a profound reverence, awe, or deep respect for His presence, authority, and holiness.
In Acts 9:31, “fear of the Lord” means living in reverence of God’s greatness. The Greek word phobos points to deep respect that shapes how we live, not fear that drives us away. This kind of fear draws us closer, guiding our actions with wisdom, just as it did for the early church.
In the Bible, phobos often means that the more you know God, the more you honour Him. It’s not fear that pushes you away, but reverence that draws you closer. This deep respect, as Proverbs 9:10 says, is the start of wisdom, and it made the early church strong and fruitful.
Reflection:
If we desire spiritual maturity, we must embrace a deep reverence that keeps us surrendered and listening. A church that fears the Lord doesn’t chase popularity—it pursues faithfulness.
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