Fear is often seen as a negative emotion—something to be avoided or conquered. But not all fear is bad. There is a kind of fear that is beneficial and essential to our walk with God. While fear of the unknown, failure, or man can paralyze us, the right kind of fear leads us closer to God, strengthens our faith, and keeps us from sin.

Fear Teaches Us to Rely on God

Life is full of uncertainties, and fear can creep in when we face challenges beyond our control. But instead of letting fear overwhelm us, we can use it as a reminder to trust in God’s power. Psalm 56:3 says, “Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.” Fear should not drive us away from God but push us toward Him. It teaches us to depend on His strength instead of our own.

Fear Helps Us Avoid Sin

A healthy fear of consequences keeps us from making foolish decisions. This is even more true in our spiritual lives. Proverbs 16:6 says, “By the fear of the Lord one departs from evil.” When we fear God, we take sin seriously. This isn’t a fear of punishment alone but a deep reverence that makes us hate what separates us from Him. Just as a child avoids disobeying a loving parent out of respect, we avoid sin when we fear and love God.

Fear Leads to Wisdom

The Bible says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). True wisdom doesn’t come from intelligence or experience alone—it comes from recognizing God’s holiness and our need for Him. When we properly fear the Lord, we make decisions with eternity in mind. We don’t live recklessly but with purpose and discernment.

Fear Reminds Us of God’s Power

When Jesus calmed the storm, His disciples were not just amazed but afraid. Mark 4:41 says, “And they feared exceedingly, and said to one another, ‘Who can this be, that even the wind and the sea obey Him!’” This wasn’t a fear that made them run from Jesus but a fear that deepened their understanding of His greatness. A proper fear of God leads to worship and awe, reminding us that He controls everything.

Not all fear is harmful. The right kind of fear—fear of the Lord—keeps us humble, obedient, and dependent on Him. Instead of seeing fear as something to eliminate, we should ask God to give us the right kind of fear that leads to wisdom, holiness, and a deeper relationship with Him.

By: Justin Odom