‘Blessed is the person who always fears the Lord’ (Proverbs 28:14)

Godly fear flows from grace, and is always connected with spiritual knowledge. It is the fear of a tender child, who would not on any account grieve a kind and loving parent. It is a covenant blessing. Our God bestows it on all whom he loves, and they consequently fear to offend Him, their Father; dishonour their gracious Saviour; or grieve the Holy Comforter.

They fear in case they should be led astray from God by their own hearts; by Satan; by professors; by the world; or any of the dispensations of judgement; they reverence God’s word; and they dread being in a lukewarm state.

Happy is the person who therefore fears continually; they happily preserve a tender conscience; a humble mind; and a consistent walk. They prove their interest in all new-covenant blessings; they have much to do with the blood of the atonement; and they enjoy peace.

They are in a happy state, standing high in the favour of God, walking in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, and keeping themself unspotted from the world. Oh, for such godly fear to rule my heart, and to preserve my daily steps.

Fear Him, ye saints! And ye will then
Have nothing else to fear.
Make ye His service your delight –
He’ll make your wants His care.

THE DAILY REMEMBRANCER by James Smith (1802-1862)

Journal Jottings

‘My New Year’s motto is: “I will look unto the Lord” [Micah 7:7]. May I be enabled to carry out this purpose through the year?’