Pro 14:26 | KingComments | STEP | In these two verses, the righteous are encouraged by pointing out to them two particular characteristics of the fear of the LORD. The first characteristic is that those who fear the LORD, who have reverence for Him, can go their way in “strong confidence” in Him ( ). It is about “children of the fear of the LORD”, not children of the LORD. The reverent fear of the LORD is a sure protection against the dangers that threaten on all sides. The picture is of a fortress, to which the righteous flee and are safe. It is also the picture of a father protecting his children from powers stronger than the child, but not than the father. God is a refuge and strength, a help in afflictions ( ). In ourselves we have no strength, but in Him is all the strength we need. His own take refuge in Him for protection from the enemy. The fear of the LORD not only provides protection. The second characteristic is that reverent fear of the LORD brings life ( ). This life is life in its full and infinite duration, for death does not come near it. God is the Source of all life. Those who have a connection with Him by faith live in a living relationship with Him. Outside of Him there is no life. Fellowship with Him is life. As a result, the snares of death, temptations that result in death, are recognized and avoided. Both characteristics are needed in a world that wants to do us harm and in which we want to live to the glory of God. Here we see preservation against the two aspects of evil: violence and temptation. The devil attacks us with violence or he wants to tempt us with his wiles. This corresponds to his two manifestations. He comes to us “as a roaring lion” ( ) or “as an angel of light” ( ).

‏ Proverbs 14:26

The Fear of the LORD

In these two verses, the righteous are encouraged by pointing out to them two particular characteristics of the fear of the LORD. The first characteristic is that those who fear the LORD, who have reverence for Him, can go their way in “strong confidence” in Him (Pro 14:26). It is about “children of the fear of the LORD”, not children of the LORD. The reverent fear of the LORD is a sure protection against the dangers that threaten on all sides.

The picture is of a fortress, to which the righteous flee and are safe. It is also the picture of a father protecting his children from powers stronger than the child, but not than the father. God is a refuge and strength, a help in afflictions (Psa 46:1). In ourselves we have no strength, but in Him is all the strength we need. His own take refuge in Him for protection from the enemy.

The fear of the LORD not only provides protection. The second characteristic is that reverent fear of the LORD brings life (Pro 14:27). This life is life in its full and infinite duration, for death does not come near it. God is the Source of all life. Those who have a connection with Him by faith live in a living relationship with Him. Outside of Him there is no life. Fellowship with Him is life. As a result, the snares of death, temptations that result in death, are recognized and avoided.

Both characteristics are needed in a world that wants to do us harm and in which we want to live to the glory of God. Here we see preservation against the two aspects of evil: violence and temptation. The devil attacks us with violence or he wants to tempt us with his wiles. This corresponds to his two manifestations. He comes to us “as a roaring lion” (1Pet 5:8) or “as an angel of light” (2Cor 11:14).