Is He Safe?

I just completed a month’s worth of posts on “Jesus is…” (follow me on Facebook or Instagram to see them). I ran out of days before I ran out of names referred to in the Bible. There are so many. The ones I did use reminded me of how mighty our God is! With each new name, I saw a new perspective of our Lord and Savior; and I fell more in love with Him with each post. I also gained more respect for, and awe of Him. It is amazing how we think we understand something, and yet each time we read His word, our understanding deepens. I can certainly see how…

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” Proverbs 9:10 [my emphasis].

Creating this series of posts also reminded me of the lines from C.S. Lewis’ book, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe:

“Aslan is a lion- the Lion, the great Lion."

"Ooh" said Susan. …"Is he-quite safe?"…

…"Safe?" said Mr. Beaver ..."Who said anything about safe? 'Course he isn't safe. But he's good. He's the King, I tell you.”

Just as the lion Aslan, who represents Jesus in C.S. Lewis’ book, is not safe – neither is Jesus. And that’s an important thing! Who would feel guarded by a “safe” king? Jesus is good though. If we have accepted Him as our Lord and Savior, we should fear Him (be more in awe of Him); yet not be afraid of Him.

Unfortunately, we often appreciate the idea of Jesus as our Savior, then struggle with Him as our Lord. If we love Him, we should obey His teaching.

Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them” John 14:23.

Thankfully, the Lord understands our “human-ness” and how difficult it can be at times, to give up control of our lives and listen to the Spirit. He has so much grace.

“The Lord is slow to anger and filled with unfailing love, forgiving every kind of sin and rebellion” Number 14:18a.

We must keep trying though, because Jesus is The King, our King; and He earned His throne! His crown of beauty replaced that of the thorns man thrust on His head. His robe of righteousness is much better fitting than the one used to mock Him, and He covers us with it! The words “King of the Jews” on the cross, which the Jews wanted removed, were fulfilled not just for the Jews, but for all who kneel to Him! Yet, by His wounds we are healed?! Does that not give us the best reason to acknowledge His authority, remember His might and always remain in awe of Him?

One day soon, He will return. And when He does…

“Remember, we will all stand before the judgment seat of God.

For the Scriptures say,

‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bend to me, and every tongue will declare allegiance to God.’

Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God” Romans 14:10b-12.

 

Allow me to share just a few of the names that struck me the most regarding His power. Read them slowly and let them sink in:

Life, Truth, Creator, Resurrection, Lord of All, King of Kings, Judge, Great High Priest, Alpha and Omega, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Lion of Judah, and The Great I Am.

Do we need to be afraid of Jesus? Not if we are under His rule and reign. Do we need to fear Him? Absolutely! I challenge you to look up the words, “fear the Lord” in any online Bible App (I use biblegateway.com) to see for yourself how many references are in any given translation.

I pray you too will discover what an honor and privilege it is to serve such a mighty, loving and righteous King!