- Joined
- Feb 9, 2004
- Messages
- 17,081
Trashing the Transcendent
David Jeremiah
God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be held in reverence by all those around Him.
Psalm 89:7
[TABLE="class: box1"]
[TR]
[TD]Recommended ReadingPsalm 89:1-7[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]
Reverence isn't widely revered any more. Much of our worship has lost its awe, and there's little majesty in our gatherings. In daily conversation, too, we often hear God's name spoken irreverently and His truths treated with disrespect. The world wants to trash the transcendent and reduce the grandeur of the Almighty to a self-defined experience.
Of course, there is something to be said for enjoying the informal friendship we have with our Lord. Paul told us to address God as "Abba, Father" (Romans 8:15), the word "Abba" being a childlike word of affection like "Daddy" or "Papa."
But note the biblical balance. Jesus reminded us pray, "Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name" (Matthew 6:9). We mustn't so focus on the love of God that we forget His loftiness. He is an all-consuming fire who fills heaven and earth and dwells in inapproachable light. His name must never be taken lightly or His presence entered carelessly. He is pavilioned in splendor and girded with praise, and to Him belong the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever.
We reverence God and we hallow God's name when our life is such that it brings honor to God and attracts others to him.
William Barclay
Read-thru-the-Bible
Romans 1:1 -- 3:31
