And HE said, draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet for the place thou standest is holy ground. Exodus 3:5.

I wonder how many of us even know the meaning of reverence. I doubt that very many do anymore. I have seen such atrocious attitudes towards GOD who should be held with the deepest and fullest reverence. But first let me start with the dictionary definition of reverence so that we may be able to have a deeper understanding of what reverence means.

According to Webster's American Family dictionary, Reverence is 1. A feeling or attitude of deep respect, tinged with awe; veneration. 2. The outward manifestation of this feeling; to pay reverence. 3. A gesture indicative of deep respect; an obeisance, bow or curtsy. 4. The state of being revered.

There is more to the definition but not what pertains to this article. Let us now begin with why we should show reverence to GOD.

First of all GOD is the creator of all things. HE created the heavens and the earth according to the first chapter of GENESIS, and HE created man. GOD is all powerful, all knowing, and everywhere at the same time. There is no limit on GOD'S power. HE can destroy a planet with a thought if HE should so desire.

Secondly GOD is Holy. HE is sinless, and blameless. HE is perfect. Why should that make any difference? It makes a big difference since we are just mortals, and HE is GOD.

GOD is also love and wants to lavish HIS blessings on his own, but GOD is also a jealous GOD, HE said thou shalt have no other GOD's before me. What has this to do with reverence? Simple HE is worthy of it. I shudder when I hear people take GOD'S name in vain, or make sick jokes about GOD. They don't realize the mighty power of GOD, who will bring judgement on those who defile HIS Holy name. We make light of GOD, and some even challenge HIM in the wrong way. We are so irreverent toward HIM.

Why can't we be reverent toward GOD? We have lost that reverence. One reason is tolerance toward other false religions and practices that would make our for-fathers turn in their graves. Another reason is Apathy which is also a form of tolerance. It's a I don't care attitude, as long as you don't step on my toes, do whatever you want. Brothers and Sisters in CHRIST this should not be.

In closing let me remind you that GOD'S word says that "Every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that JESUS CHRIST is truly LORD of all.

© Copyright 2001 by John and Cindy Thomas