The Life That Fears the Lord | Psalm 34

Psalm 34 is born out of crisis. David writes from a moment of fear, weakness, and uncertainty, yet instead of lament or complaint, he offers praise, instruction, and hope. This alone forces us to ask what kind of faith produces worship in moments like that.

In this sermon, we see that the fear of the Lord is not a narrow religious emotion, but a way of life. It shapes how we praise, how we trust, how we obey, and how we endure suffering with hope. David begins by blessing the Lord in affliction, not because circumstances are easy, but because God remains worthy. Praise becomes an act of dependence, not denial.

David then invites us to taste and see that the Lord is good. The fear of the Lord is learned not through observation alone, but through lived trust. To take refuge in God is to stop relying on strength, control, or self-reliance and instead entrust ourselves fully to His care. God defines what is truly good, and He never withholds what serves the good of His people.

As the psalm continues, David teaches that the fear of the Lord expresses itself in ordinary obedience. Our speech, our conduct, and our relationships are shaped by reverent trust in God. Obedience does not earn God’s favor, but flows from it. Faith produces fruit over time, not perfection, but direction.

Finally, Psalm 34 rests in assurance. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, yet the Lord hears, sees, and saves. God redeems the life of His servants, and none who take refuge in Him will be condemned. This promise finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the righteous sufferer who bore condemnation in our place so that we could rest securely in God’s saving care.

The life that fears the Lord is not a flawless life, but a dependent one. It is lived not in fear of condemnation, but in confidence that the Lord redeems those who take refuge in Him.