Job 28:28
‘Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom,
and to turn away from evil is understanding. ’”
Could the connection between the fear of God and repentance be any more clearly demonstrated than in this verse? Job 28:28 is basically saying: “to be terrified by God due to your sin (the fear of the Lord), is rational (is wisdom), and to be repentant (to turn away from evil) is to be prudent (is understanding).”
The fear of God leads the Christian to repentance. Just read through the book of Job. Job was a wealthy man who lived in the land of Uz, probably around 1500 B.C. The Bible describes him as blameless and upright. He was blessed with many children, and he would “rise early in the morning and offer burnt offerings according to the number of them all. For Job said, “It may be that my children have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts.” Thus Job did continually.” (Job 1:5).
The book then reveals to the reader what is behind the scenes. It reveals to us that there are forces at play, which we are not usually aware of, which effect reality in ways we would never have imagined, unless such was revealed to us. God challenges Satan to consider His servant Job. In doing so, Satan is permitted to destroy Job’s wealth, family, and health. This leads to a dialogue between Job, three friends, and one young wise man. Their conversation revolves around speculating as to why Job has faced the trials he is currently in.
Conclusions abound, but they are just mere guesses as to what has happened.
The book climaxes when God finally answers the speculations. Job is put in his place through God’s inquiry. God’s interrogation pushes Job to the brink. He is brought to the absolute limit.
Fear silences Job:
Job 40:3-5
“Then Job answered the Lord and said:
“Behold, I am of small account; what shall I answer you?
I lay my hand on my mouth.
I have spoken once, and I will not answer;
twice, but I will proceed no further.””
God then goes on with His cross-examination. After another long intense diatribe, Job is left to face the absolute reality of who he is, in light of who God is.
What is his fearful response?
Repentance…
Job 42:1-6
“Then Job answered the Lord and said:
“I know that you can do all things,
and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted.
‘Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge? ’
Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand,
things too wonderful for me, which I did not know.
‘Hear, and I will speak;
I will question you, and you make it known to me. ’
I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear,
but now my eye sees you;
therefore I despise myself,
and repent in dust and ashes.”
The repentant person is repentant because such a person mournfully recognizes their sin. They face reality.
The book of Job is a beautiful illustration as to how fear and repentance connect.
Brothers and sisters, I urge you to never stop mournfully recognizing who you are in light of God, and to turn and face your fear… your beautiful Fear… and trust in Him.
Godspeed, to the brethren!
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