Each phase of life bears the marks of certain strengths and weaknesses. In youth, man has a great amount of zeal. In fact, the Bible points out that “the glory of young men is their strength.” A young man might have the fortitude, strength, and stamina to accomplish great things, but his limited knowledge hinders his ability to accomplish greatness. As time elapses, man learns from both failure and success. He obtains the knowledge and enjoys the wisdom that often eluded him during his youth. His glory no longer resides in his strength, but his beauty is now “the gray head.” The very thing that limited his ability to accomplish great things in youth is now a virtue he has achieved. The glory of his youth may have departed, but there remains hope. He has the knowledge but lacks the strength he once possessed. Fortunately, he can invest his knowledge into those who still retain their youthful vitality.
Fear introduced is faith attacked. As such, we should not be partakers of the world’s fears. Instead, we should “sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be” our fear (Isaiah 8:13). Throughout scripture, the Lord admonished His people not to fear the world. Why? The answer is twofold: (1) the Lord was with them (Genesis 26:24) and (2) fear of the world yields bondage (Proverbs 29:25). This worldly bondage never originates with the Lord (Romans 8:15) for He has given Christians a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). We need not fear those who can destroy the body (Matthew 10:28); rather, we ought to say the Lord is our helper, and we will not fear what men will do unto us (Hebrews 13:6).
The Bible refers to both a godly and ungodly fear. The two fears will not and cannot coexist. Godly fear pertains to the healthy fear involving fearing the Lord (Isaiah 8:13); however, ungodly fear pertains to fearing the things of this world (Isaiah 8:12). Ungodly fear opposes faith and can grievously effect a person (Job 4:14; Job 22:10; Psalm 48:6; 1 John 4:18), but the fear of the Lord is founded upon faith and provides confidence and assurance. The fear of this world brings torment upon its victims, yet the fear of the Lord prolongs life (Proverbs 10:27). Not surprisingly, the world thrives on triggering ungodly fears, especially its entertainment and news programs. God’s people should avoid the worldly and major on the fear of the Lord.
