Proverbs 9:10 says, “Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment.” This verse captures a central biblical theme: true wisdom begins with a proper understanding of who God is and our relationship to Him.
What Does It Mean to Fear the Lord?
The phrase “fear of the Lord” can sometimes be misunderstood. It does not mean living in terror of God but rather having deep reverence, awe, and respect for Him. This kind of fear acknowledges God’s holiness, justice, and power, leading us to submit to His authority and follow His ways. It is the starting point of true wisdom because it places God at the center of our lives, shaping our decisions, actions, and attitudes.
Wisdom Begins with God
Many people equate wisdom with intelligence, experience, or education. While those things can be valuable, the Bible teaches that real wisdom starts with recognizing and honoring God. When we fear the Lord, we acknowledge that He is the source of all truth and that His ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). This foundational understanding helps us navigate life with discernment, avoiding the pitfalls of self-reliance and worldly thinking.
Knowledge of the Holy One and Good Judgment
The second part of the verse states, “Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment.” The more we grow in our knowledge of God—through His Word, prayer, and a relationship with Him—the better we become at making wise and godly decisions. Knowing God’s character, His love, justice, and mercy helps us discern right from wrong, good from evil, and temporary pleasures from eternal rewards.
How to Cultivate the Fear of the Lord
- Spend Time in God’s Word – The Bible is filled with wisdom. Regularly reading and meditating on Scripture helps us understand who God is and how He wants us to live.
- Pray for Wisdom – James 1:5 reminds us that if we lack wisdom, we should ask God, and He will give it generously.
- Surround Yourself with Godly Counsel – Proverbs 13:20 says, “Walk with the wise and become wise.” Seeking advice from mature believers helps reinforce godly wisdom in our lives.
- Live in Obedience to God – True reverence for God leads to a life of obedience. The more we align our actions with His Word, the more wisdom we gain.
- Worship and Acknowledge His Greatness – Worship reminds us of who God is and keeps our hearts humble before Him. When we stand in awe of His majesty, wisdom naturally follows.
Final Thoughts
The fear of the Lord is not just the beginning of wisdom—it is its foundation. Without a reverent relationship with God, our understanding and decision-making are flawed. But when we grow in the knowledge of the Holy One, we gain the wisdom and discernment needed to navigate life’s challenges. May we seek to know Him more each day, allowing His wisdom to guide our steps and shape our hearts.
