When people hear the phrase “fear of the Lord,” many instinctively associate it with being terrified of God’s punishment—like a cosmic parent poised to catch us in wrongdoing. But is this what the biblical authors really meant? Not at all.

In fact, the Bible tells us the opposite. In 1 John 4:18, we find this liberating truth: “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment.” Let that sink in. The love of God isn’t something to make us cower; it’s a force that sets us free.

So why does the Bible use the word “fear” when describing our relationship with God? Here’s where translation can muddy the waters. The original Hebrew and Greek words often rendered as “fear” might be better understood as “awe” or “reverence.” These words point not to terror but to a deep sense of wonder, mystery, and beauty.

Think about standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon or under a vast starry sky. In moments like these, you might feel small but not afraid. You’re overwhelmed by the grandeur, captivated by the sheer immensity and perfection of what’s before you. That’s closer to what the “fear of the Lord” is meant to evoke—a reverent awe that draws us closer to the heart of the Divine.

This kind of awe isn’t paralyzing; it’s freeing. It invites us to marvel at the mystery of God, to be drawn into the beauty of God’s love and presence. It’s an awe that inspires trust, not dread.

The next time you encounter this phrase, remember: the “fear of the Lord” is not about trembling under the threat of punishment. It’s about standing in wonder before a God whose love is so perfect, it casts out fear entirely.