Psalms 119:120
My flesh trembleth for fear of thee; and I am afraid of thy judgments.
Psalms 119:120
Verse 120 expresses a palpable reverence and fear of God’s judgments that leads to a proper posture before Him: the speaker’s flesh trembles and is afraid of God’s judgments. The language captures a healthy awe—fear of the Lord as the beginning of wisdom. In the psalm, fear is not mere terror but dependent reverence that anchors obedience and humility. The immediate cause is God’s judgments, which reflect his holy character and righteous standards. The verse sits in a sequence that moves from trust in God’s protection to a sober recognition of moral accountability. This combination—trust in God’s word and fear of His judgments—frames a balanced spirituality: confidence in God's goodness while recognizing the seriousness of divine justice.
Theologically, fear of the Lord is foundational for wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). This verse foregrounds moral accountability in the presence of a holy God. It acknowledges that judgment is real and that human beings must respond with humility and obedience. The tension between safety and judgment indicates that while God is a shelter, He is also a righteous judge who will evaluate deeds. This aligns with biblical themes that reverence for God motivates ethical living and prevents arrogance. It also reinforces the relationship between worship and ethical behavior: awe of God’s character leads to alignment with His statutes.
In daily life, cultivate a healthy fear of God that informs choices, especially when tempted to minimize sin or justify questionable behavior. Begin tasks with a posture of reverence—for instance, pause before making risky decisions and ask: How would God view this? Use this fear as a motivator for integrity in workplaces, schools, and homes. Practical steps include regular self-examination, prayer for God’s judgments to guide you, and learning from godly mentors who model humility and accountability. The aim is not mere fear but a transformative respect that leads to righteous living.
Cross-References: Proverbs 1:7; Psalm 2:11; Isaiah 57:15; 2 Corinthians 5:11; Hebrews 12:28-29