AWESTRUCK

That word “awesome” is one of the most misused words in our culture. These days anything vaguely exciting is described as awesome. Everything from the special effects in the latest blockbuster movie to the taste of a fast-food hamburger is apparently awesome – or quite literally, worthy of awe. We hear fans tell their celebrity heroes, “I’m in awe of you” – but this cannot be the case either. For if these fans truly were in awe, they would be flat on their faces. The Bible tells us that awe is something reserved for God, and God alone:

Dominion and awe belong to God

(Job 25:2)

What a thought. We know that honor, praise, glory and power belong to God. Yet here we learn that awe too is reserved for Him alone. We may stand inspired or impressed by the characteristics and achievements of another human being, but in the correct sense of the word, we must never stand in awe of that person. Awe is reserved for God alone. It is the look of wonder and amazement that flows from one who has glimpsed God in His splendor.

Taken from the Book: Facedown

Written by: Matt Redman