Proverbs 15:33

The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor. (ESV)

This verse has some of the most varied translations. But most of them seem to indicate, Step 1: fear the Lord; Step 2 become wise.

This is not meaning God wants you in fear of him, quite the opposite. Some form of “do not be afraid” is commonly stated in the Bible because if you abide in God’s love there really is nothing to fear.

So “fear the Lord” is ea…