Here’s a touchy-feely topic—but what does it feel like to encounter God? My first response is joy—so much JOY. Add to that PEACE, ACCEPTANCE, and a sense of RIGHTNESS.
My experiences with God have never resulted in one Biblical emotion: FEAR. If I did not know better, I might argue fear is an Old Testament emotion, or maybe it only happens to certain people.
But many in the New Testament experienced fear in God’s presence.
In Acts chapter 2, the Holy Spirit descended on believers, they spoke in the tongues of the nations, and…
“That day about 3,000 people were added to the church. And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayers. Then FEAR came over everyone, and many wonders and signs were being performed through the apostles” Acts 2:41-43.
Have you felt FEAR in God’s presence?
I have not. But it is common throughout scripture. Israel was filled with fear after God punished the disobedient such as through earthquakes that opened up and swallowed rebellious Israelites in Numbers 16:32. The nation was also terrified when they heard God’s voice in Deuteronomy 5:25, and they begged God to speak to Moses alone and let Moses speak to the nation. Then they were afraid when Moses came back from time with God and his face glowed from God’s glory in Exodus 34:30.
And in the Book of Acts, people in the middle of what looks like a ‘happy’ experience of God’s miracles began to feel FEAR. It seems the closer people get to actually seeing or touching God’s glory, the more they feel fear. Perhaps standing close to the Lord is like getting close to something dangerous—a lion, a cliff, a tornado. I’m not sure. But I’m intrigued by the fact that believers felt FEAR on the day of Pentecost in Acts 2:43. Isn’t that the last emotion you would expect?
God, draw us close to You. We want to see You and know You more. A little fear never hurt anybody, right? Move us by Your presence.
ΑΩ
Household Words: 