Look Up—and Bow Down

What Is Reverence? Reverence, simply put, “implies profound respect mingled with love, devotion, or awe.”1 Reverence can be shown to a leader you respect, a set of ideals you hold to, or a certain establishment you believe in. We should revere the institution of marriage, for example. Even nonreligious people show reverence for people and ideas when they sacrifice their time and resources for them. Let’s define Christian reverence as follows: Reverence is a humble faith in and submission to the reality of God’s holiness, splendor, and goodness. Reverence toward God is more than mere respect. It involves a fundamental humility and self-forgetfulness—a sense that God is more important and greater than we are. Reverence is not just a nod; it’s a bow. Is reverence vital to the life of a believer? Jonathan Edwards says that “a true and faithful Christian does not make holy living a mere incidental thing, but it is his great concern. As the business of the soldier is to fight, so the business of the Christian is to be like Christ.”2 This Christian business includes reverence toward God. Stand in Awe Laura Story Sharing her 20 years of experience as a worship leader and award-winning reco...