Fear of the Lord is a loving reverence for God that includes submissions to his lordship and to the commands of his word. Knowledge of God involves having a personal relationship with God and knowing what he is teaching us. In Proverbs 24:21 the author urges – Fear the Lord and the King. Submission to civil authority is also commanded. Ecclesiastes 8:2-5 and I Peter 2:17 says, “dread ye God, honour ye the king.” Romans 13:1-7 insists the same obedience.

    ‘Fear of the Lord’ is the theme in the Book of Proverbs. In Proverbs 14:26 Fear of the Lord becomes a strong tower where we and our children can find refuge. Humility and fear of Lord brings wealth, honour and life. One of our most important duties is to fear God because loving reverence is the foundation of wisdom.

    In Acts 10:22 we come across the testimony of Cornelius the Roman Centurion. He is respected by all the Jewish people as he is a righteous and God-fearing man. Also his prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before god. God does not show favouritism, but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right. While Peter the apostle was speaking the Word of God, Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message in the house of Cornelius. In spite of all his good deeds, Cornelius needed to hear the way of salvation. He believed in one God and respected the moral and ethical teachings of the Jews. So when Peter preached the Word of God the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles. All started speaking in tongues and praising God.