I want the presence that feels like it might kill me. I want to feel the Lord so strongly that he has to protect me from the raw power of his presence. I want to hunger for Jesus in such a way that I will never settle for anything other than constantly going deeper and deeper into his intimate embrace. I want that feeling of utter humility, reverence, fear, awe, and loss of control that only comes with an encounter with the Lord. I’ve read about that presence that is so heavy that those caught up in it cannot even stand. The presence that is so unbearably bright that those who see it are blinded. The presence that has to cover your face with His hand just so you don’t die when you see His Glory. The presence that demands obedience and commands submission.

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge;
    fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Proverbs 1:7)

Lord, teach me how to fear you. Teach me what that means and how to cultivate that discipline within my spirit.

“The angel of the Lord encamps
    around those who fear him, and delivers them.” (Psalm 34:7)

Deliver me, Lord, from all the ways I think about you that aren’t in line with who you are. Deliver me from evil. Deliver me from the world. Deliver me from myself, my flesh. Deliver me from anything that isn’t purely you. Surround me from all sides and shelter me within your presence.

“Oh, fear the Lord, you his saints,
    for those who fear him have no lack!” (Psalm 34:9)

I’m in the Lord’s Army (YES SIR). As a soldier holds a respectful fear of his commander, so I will obey the General of the armies of heaven, clothed in a pure white robe dipped in blood, a double edged sword coming from his mouth, mounted on his steed who is named Faithful and True. I will follow Him. Follow Him wherever He may go. May His wrath never turn upon me.

“Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.” (Job 28:28)

Make me wise, Lord.

“And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation.” (Luke 1:50)

Have mercy on me, Lord. For I am your son who has sinned countless times, yet you died for me, forgave me, and gifted me a new life.

“The fear of the Lord leads to life, and whoever has it rests satisfied; he will not be visited by harm.” (Proverbs 19:23)

A new life you have given me. A life free from harm. A life empowered by your Spirit. Thank you, Lord Jesus. You are Almighty King. You are Creator God. You are Christ my savior.

“The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear him, and he makes known to them his covenant.” (Psalm 25:14)

Speak to me your secrets, Lord. Embrace me as a friend, as a son. I love you, Jesus. I take the body and the blood as a covenant with you. I will never turn away from you, Lord, just as you will never turn away from me. You have saved me, and you will always save me. I am bound to you. I am your humble servant, your faithful warrior, your obedient son, and your grateful slave. Your will be done in my life. And may I never get in the way.

-Jonah