Get Smart
GET SMART
Read Deuteronomy 10:12-13, 17-21.
“I’m going to climb the fence around the power station’s transformer,” Jason announced.
Michael’s eyes widened. “Don’t do it, Jason. Dad says it’s dangerous. Why do you think the electric company put up that high fence?”
“To keep out scaredy-cats like you,” mocked Jason. “Have a good time playing with the girls.”
I’d better stop him, Michael thought as he watched Jason leave. He jumped to his feet and ran toward the house, thinking, I’ll tell Mom.
As soon as Michael’s mother heard about it, she called the electric company. Minutes later they heard sirens. “Stay here,” Mom ordered as she headed for the street.
When Mom returned, she gave Michael a teary smile. “Jason touched a high voltage wire just as the emergency squad arrived. He has some bad burns, but he’ll be okay.”
“Jason said he wasn’t afraid of anything,” Michael told his mother.
Mom sighed. “It’s good to fear some things,” she said. “For instance, the Bible says that fearing the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.”
“Does that mean we’re supposed to be afraid of God?” asked Michael.
“We are to fear God in the sense that we respect and obey Him,” answered Mom.
“Like I respect and obey you and Dad?” Michael asked.
Mom nodded. “That shows wisdom. If you’re smart, you fear many things, and it keeps you out of a lot of trouble.”
HOW ABOUT YOU?
Are you afraid of God? If you’re a Christian, He’s your heavenly Father. He loves you, but you do need to respect and obey Him. Do that, and you don’t need to be afraid.
TO MEMORIZE:
Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true wisdom. All who obey his commandments will grow in wisdom.
Psalm 111:10
FEAR GOD.
From the book
