In Proverbs 20 What Does It Mean To Fear The Lord And How Does That Relate To Wisdom?
Understanding the Fear of the Lord in Proverbs 20
The concept of "the fear of the Lord" is a central thread woven throughout the book of Proverbs. While Proverbs 20 does not explicitly use the phrase "fear of the Lord," its themes and instructions flow out of that foundational principle. To grasp what it means to fear the Lord and how it relates to wisdom in Proverbs 20, we must consider the broader biblical context and examine the chapter’s specific guidance.
The Fear of the Lord: A Foundational Principle
The fear of the Lord in Scripture is not a cringing terror but a reverent awe and deep respect for God, acknowledging His holiness, justice, and authority. Proverbs opens with this assertion:
The fear of Jehovah is the beginning of knowledge; But the foolish despise wisdom and instruction. - Proverbs 1:7 ASV
This "fear" is the starting point for true wisdom—it shapes our hearts, decisions, and the way we live. It is a relational reverence that leads to obedience, humility, and trust in God.
Proverbs 20: Living Out the Fear of the Lord
Though Proverbs 20 does not directly repeat the phrase, its wisdom sayings reveal what it looks like to walk in the fear of the Lord. Consider these verses:
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On Integrity:
Divers weights, and divers measures, both of them alike are an abomination to Jehovah. - Proverbs 20:10 ASV
Honesty in business and relationships reflects a reverence for God’s standards. The one who fears the Lord will resist dishonest gain, knowing God sees all.
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On Accountability:
Even a child maketh himself known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right. - Proverbs 20:11 ASV
Recognizing that God evaluates purity and righteousness in all ages leads to careful living—another expression of the fear of the Lord.
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On Justice:
A king that sitteth on the throne of judgment scattereth away all evil with his eyes. - Proverbs 20:8 ASV
Rulers (and by extension, all people) who fear God are to pursue justice, imitating God's own righteous rule.
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On Trusting God's Sovereignty:
Man’s goings are of Jehovah; How then can man understand his way? - Proverbs 20:24 ASV
The fear of the Lord includes humility—trusting God’s wisdom above our own and submitting to His guidance.
The Fear of the Lord and Wisdom: An Inseparable Bond
Fearing the Lord is not just the starting line of wisdom; it is the ongoing attitude that allows us to continually grow in understanding and godly living. Wisdom flows from recognizing God’s authority and responding with obedience and humility. Proverbs repeatedly links these two:
The fear of Jehovah is the beginning of wisdom; And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. - Proverbs 9:10 ASV
Thus, the wise person is one who lives with a constant awareness of God’s presence, striving to please Him in every aspect of life. In Proverbs 20, every call to honesty, justice, self-control, and humility is ultimately a call to walk in the fear of the Lord, which produces true wisdom.
Christ: The Fulfillment of Wisdom
In the New Testament, we learn that wisdom finds its ultimate expression in Jesus Christ:
But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who was made unto us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption. - 1 Corinthians 1:30 ASV
To fear the Lord today means to trust in Christ, follow Him, and conform our lives to His teaching—living out the wisdom of God made flesh.
Conclusion
The fear of the Lord in Proverbs 20 is seen in practical, everyday wisdom: honesty, justice, humility, and trust. This reverence for God is the very heart of wisdom, guiding the believer to live in a way that honors the Lord and reflects His character. Let us strive to live in the fear of the Lord, seeking wisdom from above and walking faithfully with Christ.