To “fear the LORD” is to find the pathway of wisdom which also leads to life.
Come, you children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD (v.11). Here the psalmist invites the faithful to draw near, calling them his “children” with the warmth of a caring mentor. By beckoning them to come and listen, he underscores the importance of seeking spiritual wisdom and discipleship, much like parents nurturing those in their care. In David’s historical context, around 1000 BC, he was the king of Israel, ruling from Jerusalem. Though no specific geographic location is mentioned in this verse, we know David dwelled in the land of Israel, often under threat from enemies, yet continually calling upon the LORD for refuge and guidance.
When the psalmist declares, I will teach you the fear of the LORD (v.11), he is speaking of an attitude of reverence before God, not paralyzing terror. It is to “care most what He thinks, and whether He approves of our behavior”. This concept often appears in Scripture, beginning in the Torah (Deuteronomy 10:12) and woven throughout the prophets and wisdom literature. Walking in the fear of the LORD instills a humble dependence on Him—knowing that He is Creator and sustainer. The psalmist assures us that when we show genuine respect toward God, we align ourselves with His will and receive instruction: The LORD will instruct him in the way he should choose (Psalms 25:12), granting blessings and wisdom to those who follow His counsel.
Fear of the LORD sets us free from servitude to every lesser fear. In Exodus 14:31, Israel finally saw the greatness of the LORD’s hand and “feared” Him more than they feared Pharaoh. It highlights the liberating truth that revering God above all else, as David seeks to teach here, sparks devotion and prompts us to trust in His reliability. Indeed, wisdom begins with properly placing our awe upon the One who is worthy of it (Psalms 111:10).
God instills His loving character in those who truly revere Him. This reverence binds us to Him and opens our hearts to deeper understanding, calling us to live in harmony with His commandments. It also allows us to learn and then communicate this knowledge to others, as the psalmist does here.
This verse encourages us to approach God with both confidence and humility, letting Him shape our thinking and steady our hearts.
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Psalms 34:11 meaning
Come, you children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD (v.11). Here the psalmist invites the faithful to draw near, calling them his “children” with the warmth of a caring mentor. By beckoning them to come and listen, he underscores the importance of seeking spiritual wisdom and discipleship, much like parents nurturing those in their care. In David’s historical context, around 1000 BC, he was the king of Israel, ruling from Jerusalem. Though no specific geographic location is mentioned in this verse, we know David dwelled in the land of Israel, often under threat from enemies, yet continually calling upon the LORD for refuge and guidance.
When the psalmist declares, I will teach you the fear of the LORD (v.11), he is speaking of an attitude of reverence before God, not paralyzing terror. It is to “care most what He thinks, and whether He approves of our behavior”. This concept often appears in Scripture, beginning in the Torah (Deuteronomy 10:12) and woven throughout the prophets and wisdom literature. Walking in the fear of the LORD instills a humble dependence on Him—knowing that He is Creator and sustainer. The psalmist assures us that when we show genuine respect toward God, we align ourselves with His will and receive instruction: The LORD will instruct him in the way he should choose (Psalms 25:12), granting blessings and wisdom to those who follow His counsel.
Fear of the LORD sets us free from servitude to every lesser fear. In Exodus 14:31, Israel finally saw the greatness of the LORD’s hand and “feared” Him more than they feared Pharaoh. It highlights the liberating truth that revering God above all else, as David seeks to teach here, sparks devotion and prompts us to trust in His reliability. Indeed, wisdom begins with properly placing our awe upon the One who is worthy of it (Psalms 111:10).
God instills His loving character in those who truly revere Him. This reverence binds us to Him and opens our hearts to deeper understanding, calling us to live in harmony with His commandments. It also allows us to learn and then communicate this knowledge to others, as the psalmist does here.
This verse encourages us to approach God with both confidence and humility, letting Him shape our thinking and steady our hearts.