Hebrews 11:7 tells us that Noah had a “holy fear” that led him to build the ark. A holy fear of God is a great thing. It is an essential element of a believer’s life. In fact it is impossible to go on a Journey of Faith if it is missing. Here are just a few of the multiple verses that speak of the “fear of the Lord”:
Sin whispers to the wicked, deep within their hearts. They have no fear of God at all. Psalm 36:1
Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge… Prov. 1:7
Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. Prov. 2:5
Fear of the Lord lengthens one’s life… Prov. 10:27
Those who fear the Lord are secure… Prov. 14:26
Fear of the Lord is a life-giving fountain…Prov. 14:27
Fear of the Lord teaches wisdom; humility precedes honor. Prov.15:33
Fear of the Lord leads to life, bringing security and protection from harm. Prov. 19:23
This holy fear does not imply that you cower away from God or hide in your closet. Otherwise, why would he say, “… we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus.” in Hebrews 10:19?
Noah treated God’s word with tremendous respect and reverence. He was awestruck. And the ultimate expression of his faith was obedience… obedience at any cost!
Jesus puts it all in perspective when he boldly tells us:
Don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Matthew 10:28 (NLT)
The Bible also reminds us that Jesus himself had a deep reverence for God the Father:
While Jesus was here on earth, he offered prayers and pleadings, with a loud cry and tears, to the one who could rescue him from death. And God heard his prayers because of his deep reverence for God. Heb. 5:7
How did Noah stay the course for 100 to 120 years (that’s how long it took to build the ark!) and finish what he started? How can you finish your Journey of Faith?
1. Remove any and all distractions
Obviously this would include sins, but it also includes good things. What good things are part of your life but in reality are a distraction from the best God has for you?
2. Remember the reward from God
Your ultimate reward is heaven… being with God in his Most Holy Place!
All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. 1 Corinthians 9:25-26 (NLT)
3. Resist all discouragement
I’m the first to admit that this one is not easy. Satan will use anything to discourage you. Past sins and mistakes; close friends; critics; circumstances that are not of your making… you name it, Satan will use it.
So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Galatians 6:9 (NLT)
4. Renew yourself daily
This means that you care for your body, your emotions and your spirit. You renew your body through proper rest, exercise and a good diet. You renew your emotions through friendships and healthy hobbies. You renew your spirit through worship, time alone with God (prayer and scripture study), and other followers of Christ. These are just a few methods of renewing yourself.
That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. 2 Corinthians 4:16 (NLT)
In closing… we are on a Journey of Faith. If you have been derailed from this journey, then resume the journey
Then the Lord said to me, ‘Get up and resume the journey, and lead the people to the land I swore to give to their ancestors, so they may take possession of it.’ “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you? He requires only that you fear the Lord your God, and live in a way that pleases him, and love him and serve him with all your heart and soul. And you must always obey the Lord’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good. Deuteronomy 10:11-13 (NLT)
