December 4, 2022 - Ecclesiastes 12:13-14

“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.” Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 NIV

Lord, these are words that we really need to take to heart and remember as we live our lives. You gave Solomon such wisdom. As he concluded the book of Ecclesiastes, he wrote was that we must walk in the fear of you. Teach us more about what that means. Lord, we know you as a friend and father, so it can be easy to also forget the power & position that you hold. There is a reverence that should always be in place. We need to come before you with a reverent awe of your holiness. You deserve all honor. Help us learn that living in the Fear of God doesn’t mean that we need to be afraid of you, but it means that we have a deep respect, reverence, and awe of who you are - so much so that it completely affects how we live every area of our lives. The way we live reflects how we view you. If we are purposefully choosing to do things that are against your Kingdom ways, are we really living a life of respect and reverence to you? No. We are choosing to honor ourselves and our desires over you. What a sad reality. Lord, please forgive us for our selfishness and lack of honor for you. Help us change.

We know you see our every thought, desire, and action. Nothing is hidden from you. All these things will be brought into judgement. What a thought. We do thank you so much for your grace and forgiveness that give us hope in facing your judgement. Where would we be without it? But, Lord, help us not to use your grace and forgiveness as an excuse to do less than our best to walk in holiness. Let us always choose to walk in the Fear of God and praise you for your forgiveness when we fall short.

In Jesus name, amen.