Who are You Afraid of?

Spurgeon was a bold man. 

He never was afraid to speak for God.

The fear of man brings a snare, But he who trusts in the Lord will be exalted. ~ Proverbs 29:25, NASB

When King Solomon wrote these words I imagine his father, King David told him something similar from his youth: "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty" (Psalm 91:1). We can be for God, and still act more afraid of what people can do to us. But does it mean we stand for God? Or even under His shadow? I think an even better question than these is simply one that asks, who do you fear more: God or man? John records, "Nevertheless, many of the leaders believed in Him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, for fear that they would be put out of the synagogue.For they loved praise from men more than praise from God" (John 12:42-43).

I have to admit, when it comes to my life and how God wants me to live this life I call mine, I don't rightfully fear Him. If I did, I'd be out preaching and teaching the love of God for sinful man. However, in the same breath I also believe I need a time to be taught by the hand of God, making sure I have sound doctrine and not trade that for anything. In this case I could be doing right to "Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15, Berean Study).

You see, we can be afraid of both God and man, but if we're just concerned about what people think of us over what God wants of and from us, then we're not doing right in His eyes.  In regards to my life I do want to please God. I'd rather be one of those warriors who never quits, even if it means losing my life for His sake. After all, Jesus said, "For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it" (Luke 9:24, Berean Study).