FEAR…BUT NOT AFRAID
Monday, August 31st, 2009
I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes I tell you, fear him. Luke 12:4-6
CharestCorp is talking with a lot of churches lately. There seems to be a prevailing unease with what the future holds for churches in America. It is a combination of economic uncertainty, public disdain and the appearance that governmental leaders have abandoned all the Body of Christ holds dear.
However, I am also talking to a few churches that are walking with a thoughtful expression of contentment. Not an ignorant blissful, “I’m above the circumstances” attitude but a serious but steadfast belief that God is in complete control.
With further investigation I am discovering that the leaders of the churches who walk in this incredible peace have the healthiest “fear” of God. Some may say, “Why do they fear God?” “Shouldn’t we come before Him as our friend and Savior and protective buddy in thick and thin?” The true answer is, “No!” The Living God has the ability to cast you into everlasting hell and separate you from his Glory for the rest of eternity. Good enough for ya?
These types of churches do not walk in some timid stance of fear but in a spritely gait of victory. It is an understanding that God always fiercely protects His Church. He sent His only Son to die for it and no gates of Hell shall prevail against it. So these church continue to walk uprightly, preaching aggressively and growing exponentially. Though they fear God they are not afraid.
Even though CharestCorp is hired to help churches design and build new facilities, and to establish and maintain unity throughout the entire building process, we are the ones who are learning. We are learning that it is a privilege to partner with men and women who are pillars of the Faith while holding a healthy fear of the Living God.
Another dichotomy of the Christian faith resonates again through the saying, “Once you learn to fear God, you are no longer afraid!”