The book of Proverbs begins by identifying Solomon as its author, and that matters because Solomon’s wisdom ultimately came from God. When Solomon had the opportunity to ask God for what he wanted, he asked for wisdom. Scripture says “the wisdom of God was in him,” and that God gave him “wisdom and exceedingly great understanding.”
So where does Solomon begin?
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
If we want to become wise and skilled at living in God’s world, this is the starting point: we must learn to fear the Lord.
What Does It Mean to Fear God?
Sometimes the fear of God is explained simply as respect or reverence. But the sermon points out that the biblical picture includes more than that.
When people encounter God’s holiness and power in Scripture, there is often genuine fear. The Bible warns those who willfully disobey God:
“It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.”
Even Christians are told to work out their salvation “with fear and trembling.”
There is a balance here.
If we choose rebellion against God, we should fear His judgment. Solomon concluded Ecclesiastes with these words:
“Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all. For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil.”
Fear and obedience are connected. When we understand God’s holiness, power, and coming judgment, we take His commands seriously.
But for those who are living God’s way, His power means something different. We still stand in awe of Him, but we recognize that His power is for us rather than against us.
That’s why Scripture can also say:
“Fear not, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.”
And:
“The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”
When we properly fear God, we don’t have to live in fear of everything else.
The Fear of God Changes How We Live
Solomon says:
“The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, to turn away one from the snares of death.”
He also says:
“The fear of the Lord leads to life.”
And:
“…by the fear of the Lord one departs from evil.”
This is where fearing God becomes practical.
If we genuinely believe God knows what is best, we will listen when He warns us. His commands help us recognize dangers we might otherwise walk straight into.
That’s why the fear of God is a “fountain of life.” It moves us away from evil and the consequences that often follow it.
The basic message of Proverbs is clear: true wisdom comes from seeking God’s guidance and living His way.
We Can’t Successfully Navigate Life Without God
Solomon doesn’t soften his language:
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
According to Proverbs, it is foolish to believe we can successfully navigate God’s world while ignoring the God who created it.
God’s wisdom isn’t merely classroom instruction. It deals with real life—our relationships, sexuality, self-control, health, attitudes, choices, and treatment of other people.
When we ignore God’s instructions, our decisions can bring consequences into our lives and the lives of others. That is why His commands should not be viewed merely as restrictions. They are wisdom from the One who understands how life works.
God knows where certain roads lead even when we don’t.
Fear Can Protect Us
Some people object to the idea of fearing God. But fear itself is not necessarily bad.
If we’re in a burning building, fear tells us to get out.
If a dangerous storm is approaching, fear can keep us from making a reckless decision.
If we can’t swim, fear of deep water can protect us.
In each case, fear recognizes a genuine danger and causes us to respond appropriately.
The same principle applies to God.
Scripture presents Him as perfectly holy, infinitely wise, and infinitely powerful. If that’s who God is, then it would be foolish to ignore the consequences of deliberately setting ourselves against Him.
Proper fear recognizes reality.
And when that fear leads us to reverence God, obey Him, and turn away from evil, it becomes wisdom that protects us.
This Is Where Wisdom Begins
The fear of the Lord is not simply being terrified of God, nor is it merely casual respect.
It means recognizing who God is.
We take His holiness seriously. We understand that He will judge evil. We respect His authority, listen to His instructions, and desire to please Him.
And when we’re walking with Him, we can trust that the same awesome power we fear is also on our side.
So if we want wisdom for living, Solomon tells us exactly where to start:
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.”
Fear God. Listen to Him. Turn away from evil. Trust His wisdom.
That’s where skilled living begins.