Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered outside the gate. Therefore, let us go forth to him outside the camp, bearing his reproach. For we have no continuing city here, but we seek one to come.
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For many, the goodness of God provides men with a reason not to fear Him. But for the wise, such as the prophet Hosea, just the opposite is true. God's goodness is one of the best reasons to fear Him.
"Goodness" in the Scriptures refers to supplying physical needs. God supplies us with sunshine, rain, food, clothing, homes, and other necessities of life. Such blessings are testimonies to the goodness of God. His goodness toward us is demonstrated by His constant provision for our health and well-being. It is only when we understand that the basics of life come to us from God that we can fear Him as we should, for when we understand that, we can tremble before Him, lest He remove His goodness from us, and we suffer His divine wrath.
We fear God and His goodness when we realize the power that gives us sunshine can also take it away. We fear God and His goodness when we realize that the power that gives us every breath can refuse to give it. We fear God and His goodness when we look at the heavens and know that the God who created and sustains this vast universe "has power to cast both body and soul into hell".
Yes, we fear God and His goodness. Only fools do not.