Mat 4:1-11; The Discipline of Fear and Worship of the Lord.

Wednesday February 14, 2024

Mat 4:8-10

Again, the devil took Him to a very high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory; 9 and he said to Him, "All these things I will give You, if You fall down and worship me." 10 Then Jesus said to him, "Go, Satan! For it is written, 'YOU SHALL WORSHIP THE LORD YOUR GOD, AND SERVE HIM ONLY.'"

Idea: The fear of the Lord has to be learned through spiritual disciplines. 

Developing the fear of the Lord takes a number of disciplines.

The fear of the Lord has to be learned, Deu 4:10; 17:18-20; 31:11-13; Psa 86:11; Pro 1:29; 2:2-8.

Lectio divina - model on Pro 2:1-15.

 The fear of the Lord comes from keeping His commandments, Deu 6:1-2. 

Fear of the Lord is a commandment, Deu 6:24-25.

What disciplines will help you here?

Fasting, this discipline requires practice before it can be effective, since it is not natural for us to pursue self-denial. There are different degrees of fasting. (It is not commanded, but it is also not legalistic either, not if you see it as a means to an end and not an end in itself.)

Fasting can be for different periods of time - the point is to teach yourself self-control, 1Co 9:24-27. 

Confession and repentance, this discipline sets us free from the burden of sin.

Repentance is a godly sorrow, turning away from the sin, but without regret (2Co 7:10). 

Guidance, this discipline is seeking spiritual guidance through a mentor or mentors.

Worship in which we spend time occupied with the attributes of God - the majesty, beauty, and goodness of His person, powers, and perfections.

Fear of the Lord comes from serving Him in His presence, Deu 14:22-23. 

“In His presence” refers to the feasts where men were to travel to Jerusalem, to the temple. It was an obligation and sign of obedience and humility. 

The fear of the Lord comes from knowing what He has done (recognize all creation as His work) and all that He has done for you? (Jos 4:23-24; Psa 33:6-8).

Discipline of silent reflection - setting time aside to reflect on all that God has done and done for you. Jesus did this. 

Some of the results to those who fear the Lord. 

1. 1. Gets you off the fence (Josh 24:14-15).
   2. Wisdom (Pro 19:10)
   3. Leave a legacy (Ps 61:5; 112:1-2)
   4. Instructed in good decisions (Psa 25:12)
   5. God’s compassion (Psa 103:11-14)
   6. God’s eye is on them (Psa 33:18-20)
   7. Do not fear people or circumstances (Psa 27:1-4; 34:7). 

Without worshiping God, without fearing Him you will: 

Lack joy in everyday things. 

Lack divine perspective.

Find a frequency of fear and anxiety in your soul.