Live in Fear

(Proverbs 19:23 KJV)  The fear of the LORD tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.

“Fear” (3374) and “life” (2425b) are linked.  That may seem strange to us in our modern civilizations.  Our ancestors would understand the link much better.  Start with the hunter-gatherer level or even the nomads of the Bible.  A healthy fear kept you alert for danger.  An awareness of potential tragedy was the impetus to take extra precautions and have emergency plans.  Even today we have earthquake drills and such, just in case.  Caution can lead to less pain and suffering.  I remember the header I took down some stairs and the miracle I was not permanently damaged.

In looking at the transliteration of the Hebrew word is seems to be the word used in Fiddler on the Roof in the song that comes back to the phrase “to life”.  The idea in the movie is that there is a joy and exuberance available.  It revels in the idea that we are not just animals looking for the next meal or amoebas with an urge to divide.

So?  Live in fear.  It adds value to the day.