Hold fast to the fear

[CyrilSebastian]

In The Book of Sirach, Chapter 24 Verse 3 states:
Unless you earnestly hold fast to the fear of the Lord,
suddenly your house will be thrown down.

Please explain.

 

[cjb_914]

The line you quoted appears to be from Sirach 27:3, just in case anyone is looking for it.
Sirach 27:

1
For the sake of profit many sin,
and the struggle for wealth blinds the eyes.
2
A stake will be driven between fitted stones—
sin will be wedged in between buying and selling.
3
Unless one holds fast to the fear of the Lord,
with sudden swiftness will one’s house be thrown down.

The ‘fear’ of the Lord, is a filial fear. In that you do not engage in certain activities to avoid either His just punishments or for fear of disappointing Him.

The purpose here is to say: Do not engage in sin. Wealth is a temptation, but remember God sees your sins. Your temporary gains? The Lord will require them of you.

 

[jcrichton]

In The Book of Sirach, Chapter 24 Verse 3 states:
Unless you earnestly hold fast to the fear of the Lord,
suddenly your house will be thrown down.

Please explain.

Hi!

Consider this passage in the light of:

7 The law of the Lord is perfect,
refreshing the soul.
The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy,
making wise the simple.
8 The precepts of the Lord are right,
giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the Lord are radiant,
giving light to the eyes.
9 The fear of the Lord is pure,
enduring forever.
The decrees of the Lord are firm,
and all of them are righteous

(Psalm 19:7-9)

10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,
and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
11 For through wisdom** your days will be many,
and years will be added to your life.** (Proverbs 9:10-11)
…as it was mentioned in the previous post… the fear that is being spoken about in Scriptures is not that as it is known to man (guilt, desperation, grave loss or threat…); it is the Believer’s relationship with God… full obedience to God’s Will in order be to lifted into His Presence.

…of course, your original passage demonstrates that there’s a balance of things… the lack of fear of the Lord will undoubtedly propel man to unrighteous acts which have severe consequences, including temporal and eternal death.

…consider also Deuteronomy 30:19-20a:

19 This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live 20 and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the Lord is your life,

Maran atha!

Angel