What does it mean to fear God?

Job 13:11“Doesn’t his majesty terrify you? Doesn’t your fear of him overwhelm you?”

Psalm 33:8Let the whole world fear the Lord, and let everyone stand in awe of him.

Psalm 128:1How joyful are those who fear the Lord—all who follow his ways!

How can fearing God make us joyful? Fearing God is not the same as being afraid of God. Being afraid of someone drives us away from that person. Fearing God means being awed by his power and goodness. This draws us closer to him and to the blessings he gives. Fear of God is like the respect we have for a beloved teacher, coach, parent, or mentor who motivates us to do our best and avoid doing anything that would offend them or provoke their displeasure. We fear God because of his awesome power; we love God for the way he blesses us with it. This brings great joy!

Psalm 2:11Serve the Lord with reverent fear, and rejoice with trembling.

Because God is so great and mighty and because he holds the power of life and death in his hands, we should have a healthy, reverent fear of him. A healthy fear of God recognizes his holiness and how far we are from it. We should rejoice that instead of the judgment we deserve, he gives us mercy and forgiveness! A healthy fear should inspire humility and repentance, driving us to God for forgiveness.

2 Corinthians 7:1Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God.

A healthy fear of God motivates us to strive for holiness.