Fear of what others may be thinking about us can play an important role in the way we act. The American Indians recognized this and used scorn and ridicule to promote social order. For instance, when a child of the Fox tribe was taught the do’s and don’ts of Indian life, his elders didn’t hold over his head an abstract rule of morality. Nor did they threaten him with punishment now or in the hereafter. Instead, they said to him, “The people of the village may say things about you.”
Today’s Scripture reading also recognizes the power of social restraint – but not as a motivation for right conduct. Whereas the Indians used it to induce good behavior, the Lord warned His people Israel that the “reproach of men” could be their downfall. Let me explain. Their concern with what others said about them could cause them to seek unholy human alliance and to make compromises. Instead, they were called upon to trust the Lord and seek only His approval.
This is also good advice for us, for “the fear of man” is a snare to many Christians. If we order our conduct only by the approval or disapproval of others, we will be frustrated and left with a painful sense of insecurity.
How much better to find our fulfillment in doing what pleases God! Then the crippling terror of what others think gives way to the confidence of a healthy fear – a reverence for God that frees us to live for His approval. – Martin R. De Haan II
Living for Jesus a life that is true,
Striving to please Him in all that I do;
Yielding allegiance, gladhearted and free,
This is the pathway of blessing for me. – Chisholm
The fear of God can deliver us from the fear of men.
- November 13, 1986, Our Daily Bread
For You 