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Proverbs 19:23 - Reverential Fear of the LORD Leads to Life, Contentment and Security.

TRANSLATIONS AND PARAPHRASES

Proverbs 19:23 (NIV) The fear of the LORD leads to life: Then one rests content, untouched by trouble.

Proverbs 19:23 (NLT) Fear of the LORD gives life, security, and protection from harm.

Proverbs 19:23 (NCV) Those who respect the LORD will live and be satisfied, unbothered by trouble.

Proverbs 19:23 (CWR) Respect for the Lord lengthens a man's life, and a person who is content will spare himself a lot of trouble.

Proverbs 19:23 (TLB) Reverence for God gives life, happiness, and protection from harm.

WORD STUDY

Fear of the LORD. A loving reverence for God that includes submission to his lordship and to the commands of his word. [NIV SB 2020 re Pro. 1:7]

Fear of God. A conventional phrase equivalent to "true religion." "Fear" in this phrase has the sense of reverential trust in God and commitment to his revealed will. [NIV SB 2020 re Ecc. 20:11]

INTRODUCTION

Those who trust and fear the Lord are protected from harm because of their healthy habits and life choices, and sometimes through God's direct intervention. Nevertheless, the fear of the Lord does not always protect us from trouble in this life: Evil things still happen to people who love God. This verse is not a universal promise but a general guideline. It describes what would happen if this world were sinless, and what will happen in the new earth, when faithful believers will be under God's protection forever. [Life Application SB 2019]

COMMENTARY PEARL

Scared to Life
   Larry Whitfield, trying to escape after a robbery, broke into an elderly woman's home to hide. Though he never touched her, prosecutors say Mary Parnell was literally scared to death. In stress cardiomyopathy, intense emotion triggers the fight-or-flight response, causing an increased heart rate and blood pressure. In vulnerable populations, this hormone surge can cause a heart attack and, in rare cases, death. As a result, prosecutors charged Whitfield with murder.
   The fear in today's promise has the opposite effect. Life, satisfaction, and protection are all promised to those who fear the Lord. This fear, for the Christian, is more than shaking in terror. The Hebrew definition of fear includes reverence and awe for God's power and deep respect for His words. People who fear the Lord adore Him and seek to follow His wisdom.
   This kind of fear is life-giving. Proverbs 10:27 explains that "the fear of the LORD prolongs days." When you worship God with your heart and actions, you extend your life! Further, those who fear the Lord "abide in satisfaction." While many things offer fleeting gratification, this satisfaction abides. It lasts! When you behold God with awe, His character and mercy give your soul lasting rest.
   Finally, those who fear the Lord "will not be visited with evil." When you see God's people experience difficulties, you may be tempted to doubt this promise. But the book of Romans clarifies: "All things work together for good to those who love God" (Romans 8:28). When you love and respect the Lord, He protects you from the devil's attacks, and even the bad things that happen are redeemed for good.
   Lord, I'm in awe of Your power and promises. Thank You for protecting me and giving me life and abiding satisfaction. [The Most Amazing Bible Promises by Amazing Facts]

LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY

Proverbs 19:23 - Fear of the Lord Leads to Life and Security.
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2024/20240303-0816.html

Psalm 33:18 - God's Providential Care.
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2024/20241227-1415.html

Proverbs 14:27 - The Fountain Of Life.
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2023/20230121-0841.html

Isaiah 58:11 - God Will Guide You Continually.
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2024/20240902-1429.html

LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT

https://abible.com/links/