In a world where information is easily accessible and opinions are abundant, true spiritual guidance remains elusive for many. Yet Scripture reveals a powerful truth: the friendship of Jehovah is reserved for those who walk in the fear of God. This sacred fear, far from being rooted in terror, is the awe-filled reverence of a heart wholly devoted to God’s will. The key to divine intimacy is not intellect or experience, but a heart postured in humble submission. The fear of God is not a mere attitude, but a way of life that opens the door to deep fellowship with the Creator — and, as Psalm 25:14 declares, to the unfolding of His covenant.
“The friendship of Jehovah is with them that fear him; and he will show them his covenant.” — Psalm 25:14
What It Means to Fear God
Watchman Nee, in his insightful commentary on Psalm 25:14, addresses the fundamental question: What kind of person may receive God’s direction? His answer is clear — they who fear God. This fear is not anxiety over punishment, but the sincere reverence that exalts God above all else. Nee points to the Darby translation of Psalm 25:14: “The secret of Jehovah is with them that fear him, that he may make known his covenant to them.” The Hebrew word for “secret” (סוֹד, sôd) suggests a confidential conversation, like a whisper between close friends. This intimacy is not casual; it is cultivated in the soil of holiness.
To fear God is to hallow His name — to treat His presence, His commands, and His Word with the highest esteem. It means walking in obedience, not selectively, but absolutely, seeking God’s will with undivided intention. This deep reverence draws a person into God’s inner circle, where divine mysteries are revealed and eternal truths come alive. For such as these, God reserves His most precious confidences. The fear of God thus becomes the gateway to spiritual revelation.
The Covenant Revealed Through Reverence
God’s covenant is His binding promise, His enduring relationship with His people. In Psalm 25:14, we are assured that He will “show them his covenant.” This implies not only knowledge of God’s laws and promises, but a deeper comprehension of His heart. Many know about the covenant intellectually, but few experience its transformative power because they do not walk in the fear of the Lord.
Watchman Nee emphasizes that the person who fears God “seeks God’s will with singleness of heart.” This singleness does not mean perfection, but purity — an undivided loyalty that forsakes compromise. When we fear God in this way, He shares with us His secrets. These are not trivial bits of knowledge, but personal insights into His character, His plans, and His promises. The fear of God doesn’t just lead to obedience; it leads to intimacy and revelation.
When God “shows us His covenant,” He invites us to live in the reality of His grace, to walk according to His guidance, and to trust in His faithful love. This covenantal life is not transactional — it’s relational. It means walking closely with God, much like Abraham, who was called a friend of God. That friendship, rooted in reverence, becomes the framework for receiving divine guidance in every aspect of life.
Friendship with God Is Not Casual
The phrase “the friendship of Jehovah” reveals something astonishing: God offers not just guidance but friendship. But this friendship is not offered on human terms. It is reserved for those who approach Him with awe and humility. Too often, modern faith can slip into a casual familiarity with God that lacks reverence. But Psalm 25:14 reminds us that divine intimacy requires the right posture — one of holy fear.
Watchman Nee’s insight helps realign our expectations. God is not obligated to disclose His will to the double-minded or the self-serving. But to those who tremble at His Word, who exalt His name above their own ambitions, who listen with the intent to obey — to them, God whispers His secrets. The fear of God draws us out of superficial religion and into authentic communion with Him.
Friendship with God, then, is the fruit of reverent obedience. It is both a privilege and a responsibility. The more we walk in the fear of the Lord, the more we become aware of His presence, sensitive to His Spirit, and attuned to His direction.
Living in the Light of His Secret
Psalm 25:14 is not merely a poetic promise; it is a spiritual invitation. It calls us into a life marked by holy fear, where obedience is born from love, and reverence leads to revelation. In this sacred friendship, God not only teaches us His ways but shows us His heart. He unveils His covenant — not to the proud or the indifferent, but to the humble and the holy.
As Watchman Nee observed, God gives His secret counsel to those who fear Him. That is not a restrictive condition but a gracious roadmap. The fear of God opens the door to a life of spiritual depth, divine guidance, and unwavering peace. In a world clouded with confusion, there is nothing more precious than to hear the secret voice of the Lord and to be led by His covenant hand.
Let us then draw near — not presumptuously, but reverently. For it is in the fear of God that we discover not only His will but His friendship.
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At Raleigh Acupuncture Associates, we are deeply committed to providing the highest quality professional acupuncture while being rooted in strong Judeo-Christian values of love, faith, kindness, and truth. We guide our practice with compassionate care, where each patient is treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their background, faith, or beliefs. We welcome people from all walks of life and strive to create a warm, inclusive environment promoting healing and holistic wellness. Our dedication to delivering exceptional acupuncture is paired with a genuine love for helping others, making our clinic a place where faith and professional medical care come together for the well-being of every patient.
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