"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise." -- Psalm 111:10

It wasn't long after entering basic training for the Air Force that I learned to "fear" or respect my Training Instructor. One very important aspect of military training is to honor and follow the direction of leadership. The sooner this quality is established the easier it is to understand and contribute to the military program. In this way, one finds the beginning of wisdom.

The psalmist knew the need for "fear" or reverence for the Lord. The army of God can never move with power and order if everyone is doing their own thing. As someone once said, "There is a God... and you're not him!" The church can have only one true leader and the rest of us are called upon to follow HIM. In this way we will grow in understanding and better contribute to his kingdom work. This alone is the beginning of wisdom.

Have you truly learned to "fear" or revere the Lord my friend? Do you face each day with a surrender of personal goals, seeking the leading of the Lord? Is the will of God first and foremost in your heart moment by moment? You will only understand his purpose as you follow his direction. In this way, you will experience the beginning of wisdom.