Fear Is the Beginning

(Pro 9:10 KJV) The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.

This is the verse people remember when they hear “the fear of the Lord.” It is one of many in Proverbs. Each one seems to have a different focus.

“Fear” (3374) is like many other conditions and actions. It is not the emotion itself, but its target, that determines if it is right or wrong. In many situations fear causes our body to ramp up and helps in self-preservation. In some cases fear keeps us from doing something stupid. When it comes to God we need to start with a healthy foundation of fear. That means we have begun to see who God is and what His character is. At least we have enough fear to move ahead.