Tag Archives: awe

Awe

Awe is a feeling that comes from looking at a breathtaking view found in nature or the discovery of some profound truth that suddenly brings order into one’s world. When “awe” overtakes us it leaves us with a feeling of amazement or inspiration according to L. Teja Pattabhiraman, writer for the Epoch Times. The writer goes on to say awe is good for relationships, it helps melt away stress. We are happier people as a result. We encounter awe when we experience vastness and transcendence, when we are overcome by wonder.

For the Believer, awe can be found in the majesty of God, whether it’s a discovery found in His written Word or witnessing the power of nature or the beauty of His creation. But awe isn’t just associated with God’s power. Even though He is high and lifted up, He cares about what happens in the everyday life of an ordinary person like me.

What should our response be when we experience wonder? According to the article in the Epoch Times, when we encounter awe we can respond by being more generous or content. Linger in your moment of awe and capture it in visual or written form. Use awe to overcome your circumstances.

When Believers encounter the awe of God the appropriate response is to linger in worship, giving Him who inspires and amazes us His due.

Lord I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds. Lord renew them in our day, in our time make them known; Habakkuk 3:2

Psalm 119:153-168: Revival and Awe

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Verses 153-160 of Psalm 119 incorporate the theme of Revival.  Consider the Psalmist’s words, Deliver me (153), Redeem me (154), Revive me and preserve me (154, 156, 159).  David Guzik offers this commentary, “The Psalmist looked for help and salvation outside of himself…He knew he needed God to redeem him…The Word of God is a source of revival.”  If we will only read it and incorporate its principles into our lives.

Look upon my suffering and rescue me, for I have not forgotten your instructions. Psalm 119:153 NLT

One reason we fail to do just that is so many of us have lost our Awe of God.  This is the subject of verses 161-168.  I find it interesting that so many people are willing to make God an idea.  If they can allow themselves to believe that thought, then God can be manipulated.  Better still, God can be fooled.  However, if God is real, he is to be feared (revered) because he knows all and sees all.  Consider the Psalmists words, My heart trembles (161), I love your law (163, 165) because it is a great spoil (treasure) and brings me peace.  Because he is in awe of God and believes God knows everything about him, he obeys the Word of God (168).

Awe occurs when you stand on precipice of something vast (an ocean, mountain or canyon) and it makes you feel small.  In the words of Matt Chandler, “The human heart hungers, not to be consumed with itself, but to look up in awe of our Creator.”

Allow your heart to be revived, be in awe of God!