The Fear of God

The fear of God is a positive emotion because it directs us away from harmful things and propels us to do what is right. People who lack the fear of God more readily commit sin, as they do not fear God’s punishment. Having denied the existence of God they justify themselves, often with one of the modern ideologies which says that the moral rules of religion are fetters to be broken in the name of individual freedom. Yet as Father Moon explains, ever since the Human Fall fear has become a negative emotion, one that can lead to all kinds of self-centered behavior when it dominates our thinking.

The higher dimensions of holy fear—reverence and awe—should pervade our worship and guide our steps in life. They keep us mindful that our life and the purpose of our existence is not our own doing, but from God. They also contribute to our sense of meaning and value, as servants of the King and hence partakers in His glory