Fear God

This morning as we continue in our study through the book of Ecclesiastes, we consider Ecclesiastes 5:1-7. The Preacher calls for a posture of humility and obedience as we approach God. Our goal is not to impress God or others with our many words and grand vows. We are to be people of true and honest speech. When we say we're going to do something, we follow through. We're not to offer the sacrifice of fools or be hasty to speak. Talk is cheap and empty promises are futile. As the Preacher concludes, "For when dreams increase and words grow many, there is vanity; but God is the one you must fear" (Ecclesiastes 5:7).

Instead of following the foolish way or the fractured way, followers of Jesus seek the faithful way. Jesus is the means and model of living faithfully and showing what it means to fear God. Jesus drew near to us while we were far from God. Jesus took the anger of God, his just wrath and hatred toward sin and evil, in our place. As we consider the person and work of Jesus we are led to wonder, reverential awe, and worship of God. We are amazed that fools and fractured rebels could find forgiveness, grace, and love in Jesus. Out of our appreciation, gratitude, and wonder of what God has done in the gospel, we seek to continually humble ourselves. We seek to have a posture of listening and obeying. May God give us grace to forsake our foolishness and fear God as we pursue faithfulness.