Why Holy Matters
Motivated by Fear

Scripture Reading:  Matthew 10:26-31

Key Verse:  Matthew 10:28

Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.

Jesus was instructing His twelve disciples as they were about to go on their first solo mission.  Jesus warned them that they would be persecuted for their message.  He told them not to fear men; all they could do is kill the body.  Jesus was clear; the only proper fear is fear of the One who can destroy both the body and soul.  In other words, there is a proper fear to have in our lives.  If we are going to disappoint anyone, it should never be God.  If anyone must grieve over one of our decisions, it must not be the heart of God.

            A holy lifestyle is a result of dozens of decisions we make in favor of God and His revealed will to us.  Holiness demands that we choose the path that we believe to be God’s will.  We may not be sure at times, but God knows our hearts and our intentions.  When we make a decision to do something or say something that we know would grieve God, it reveals our lack of proper fear for Him.  To willfully and knowingly sin against God shows utter disrespect for who He is and the authority He holds over our very lives and souls.

            Out of this instruction on proper fear, Jesus quickly adds how much our Father in heaven cares for us.  He points to the sparrows and reminds us that God watches them.  Jesus adds that our Father even knows the number of hairs on our head.  A God who cares that deeply and holds the universe in His hands deserves our deepest respect and honor!

Father, forgive me when I fail to respect your authority.  I humbly surrender to your Lordship.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.