What does it mean to revere someone? It means to show honor and deep respect, but what does that look like in daily life? When we honor our parents, we avoid actions that would bring shame to their name. When we respect others, we treat them with dignity and kindness. But how do we show that same reverence toward God?
Romans 15:4, reminds us that the Old Testament was written for our learning and instruction. Looking back, we see how the Jews, according to tradition, revered God. In the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible, Moses is given God’s name, Yahweh. Yet out of deep respect, the people often avoided speaking His name directly, choosing instead to say Adonai (Lord). Why? They feared dishonoring God by misusing His name.
This helps us understand how we show reverence today. To truly revere God means to honor Him in all we do; through our words, our actions, and our daily choices. This is what it means to live in the fear of the Lord. The Israelites eventually drifted from this reverence, and their example serves as a warning. They allowed their respect for God to fade.
What about us? Does our speech reflect deep respect for Him, refusing to use His name carelessly? Do our actions show that our lives belong to Him? We honor God by glorifying Him in all we say and do, holding Him in the highest regard.
Josh Schutkowski