Delightful Fear

Read Isaiah 11:1-10

Many of the Old Testament prophecies about the coming messiah provide insight into what the savior's reign will be like. Few of these prophecies are as vivid and extensive as Isaiah 11. Through the empowerment of the Spirit, the messiah’s holy résumé will include wisdom, understanding, counsel, strength, knowledge, righteousness, and faithfulness. He will care for the poor, bring justice for the oppressed, and strike down the wicked. Peace will be experienced among all his creation, including creatures once counted as enemies.

Perhaps the most upright characteristic of the coming King is this:

“His delight will be in the fear of the Lord.” 

His proper understanding of the holiness of the Father does not result in fearful cowardice or trepidation. Rather, as he beholds the glory and splendor of the Lord, his response is pure delight.

The perfection of the messiah’s reign, fueled by his overwhelming delight in the Father, will be unmistakable, and the everlasting result will be “the nations will seek Him, and His resting place will be glorious.”

Starter Prayer:

Father,
Thank you for sending your son so that we can boldly and confidently enter into your presence. Help me to delight in the fear of the Lord, and to have a continuous longing to experience your glory and majesty.  Keep my eyes fixed on you, and let my life be characterized by those qualities that you perfectly possess: wisdom, understanding, strength, knowledge, righteousness, and faithfulness.

Amen