The Joy of Fearing God

THE JOY OF FEARING GOD by Jerry Bridges is an excellent book on an often over-looked topic in modern Christianity. In the first chapter he states his premise clearly: "There was a time when committed Christians were known as God-fearing people. This was a badge of honor. But somewhere along the way we lost it. Now the idea of fearing God, if thought of at all, seems like a relic from the past. That's to our detriment. The fear of God is actually as relevant today as it was in bygone generations" (1). In the remaining fourteen chapters he defines, describes, and illustrates what it means for Christians to individually and corporately to fear God in their lives. Chapter titles include "Beyond Measure, Beyond Compare" describing God's greatness, "Transcendent Majesty" describing God's holiness, "He Is Lord" describing God's sovereignty, and "He Is Worthy" describing how essential the fear of the Lord is in our worship.

This book really puts into perspective who we are and who our Creator is. Jerry uses a lot of Scripture which is why this book was so convicting of how we draw close to our Maker. He draws out the correct view of the fear of God and not how some others see their god, such as the Muslims. They literally fear Allah in an unhealthy way where He will smite them at any time. Our fear of our Jehovah, is a reverential fear that is brought forth in this book. Very easy read, but don't make the assumption that because it is an easy read that it is not full of theological insight and depth. Highly recommended!

The beauty of this book is that it is so down to earth about matters that are so lofty and beyong human understanding. Bridges writes in an easily digestible manner. Relating the fear of God through scriptures and short stories and even points to some helpful devotional-like activities to help worship this fear-inspiring God. This book does not address the issue of fear of God's wrath because the book makes it quite clear this is not a "godly" fear of God. Bridges gets the reader in touch with a sovereign, loving, merciful, immeasurably immense God whom we should trust, love and fear because of his soveriegnty, love, mercy, and immensity... NOT because of his wrath.

Jerry Bridges has done a masterful job again in this book. He describes in simple language what the fear of God is, and then proceeds to explain ways that you and I can have it be an active part of our lives. God is a loving God, but we must not forget the respect and awe, even fear that we are to have for Him. Jerry Bridges does an awesome job of that in a book that is easy to understand and full of scripture.

"The Joy of Fearing God" is a great book to understand how we should have the proper relationship with God. It started by talking theological doctrine that sounded very biblical based. Then, the author gave us some practical ways to exercise the knowledge we learn through the book. I had some dry time spiritually before I started reading this book. However, I forced myself to read this book to know what "the fear of God" really means. By reading through this book, God spoke to me and strengthened my faith. God prepared me to go through some huge trial happened recently in my life by using this book. If you have some doubt about God's love or God's goodness, read this book before you back off. However, it's very clear and understandable even for someone who doesn't like reading. Even English is my second language, it effected me so strongly. I especially recommend this book to Youth and College students. Also, it's great for parents. I have some disagreement with the author about the authority of employer and government, yet it doesn't change the value of this book. Please read it prayerfully and start having the Joy of fearing God! By J.I.