Awe of God is the right response to who He is.
“Let all the earth fear the LORD: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him.”Psalm 33:8 (KJV)
What does “Awe” mean in Psalm 33:8?
The Hebrew word for fear here is yare, which includes reverence and deep respect, not only fright. The verse asks the whole earth to stand in awe of Him.
Going deeper
Psalm 33 celebrates God as the Creator who spoke the world into being. The heavens were made by His word, the seas were gathered by His command, and all the peoples of the earth are under His gaze. When we see that, the natural response is awe. Fear of the LORD in Scripture is not being afraid that He will hurt us. It is a profound respect for how great and holy He is, mixed with joy that He is on our side.
Awe is often missing from modern life. We move quickly and are rarely amazed. But it is a healthy thing for the soul to be reminded that God is far bigger than our problems and our plans. Try stepping outside today, even for a few minutes, and looking at the sky or a tree or the ground under your feet. Let the size and detail of creation remind you of its Maker, and let a quiet reverence rise in your heart.
Reflect
When did you last stand in awe of God, and what could help you to pause and wonder today?
Pray
Lord, You are great and worthy of all honor. Give me a heart that stands in awe of You, and let my worship be full of reverence and joy. In Jesus' name, amen.
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