“Fear of the Lord” (#27)

Thus commands the Lord God on High
With words that echo like thunder in the sky:
“My children, though I am your comfort and safety,
You must understand that you must fear Me.
Not as the idolaters fear a tyrant’s foul blow,
But as children fear the father that they know.
I am both merciful and just; love and anger each have their place
In my plan-I discipline even those that I most closely embrace.
I ask that you, those for whom my Son’s blood was shed,
Would prepare your hearts every morning and before bed.
Remember that, if you love me, my commands you will obey,
For there are those whom evil directs like in a chess play.
How will they know Me as God if they see my children disobey
My commands by living opposite of Christ and refusing to pray
To the Ruler of all? I implore you, my children, live as I have said,
As my only Son did when the physical life He led.
So love me, my children, but respect me as well;
For therein lies the concept that will faith propel:
I am your Father, in more ways than one;
I am ever-caring, but justice must also be done.
So walk in the narrow path, oh followers of God,
Live in the freedom and fear of the God to whom you bring laud.”