August 15, 2024
Fear of God
Exodus 20:18-21 (KJV) And all the people saw the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the noise of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking: and when the people saw it, they removed, and stood afar off. And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die. And Moses said unto the people, Fear not: for God is come to prove you, and that his fear may be before your faces, that ye sin not. And the people stood afar off, and Moses drew near unto the thick darkness where God was.
This scripture poignantly pictures the fear of these ancient people. We can understand the thunder and lightning as we experience thunderstorms, which must be similar today. The noise and light from storms can be a frightening experience, especially when put together with a smoking mountain where Moses went to meet with God. These ancient people had front-row seats to watch as Moses climbed this mountain and disappeared in the thick darkness. They were not familiar with this kind of atmosphere and events, like the heavenly playing of the trumpet, and they struggled to maintain a sense of calmness amidst these spectacular events.
Though Moses tries to reassure the people not to be afraid as he meets with God, many people are beside themselves with fear. They are especially fearful of a holy God, not knowing what He will say or do. God speaks with Moses, giving him the Ten Commandments as the people stand below, waiting for Moses to return.
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