Delight To Fear His Name

September 29, 2026 

"O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of your servant, and to the prayer of your servants who delight to fear your name." Nehemiah 1:11

It's one thing to fear God's name. But it's something categorically different to delight to fear his name. 

Many who fear God live in dread of him. They're afraid of being caught. Of coming up short. They distance themselves. Run away and hide. This is the unhealthy fear of God. 

The healthy fear of God, on the other hand, is not a dread but a delight. Notice, it's specifically a delight in his name. 

The unhealthy fear of God always lacks a proper view of the name. The healthy fear of God comes from an accurate understanding of God's name. 

When you have an accurate appreciation for his name, God is attentive to your prayers. 

When you delight in God's name, you delight in God's presence, his manifest presence. And when you delight in God's presence, God delights in your prayers.

Loving Father, I delight in your name and in your presence--to love, esteem, and fear your name. Now Lord, be attentive to my prayers in Jesus' name.

YEAR ON FIRE

© Fred A. Hartley, III

All rights reserved

The English Standard Bible (ESV) is normally used, unless otherwise indicated.

This daily Christ-encountering, fire-starter is not intended to replace your daily Bible reading and prayer time, but rather to motivate you to spend extended time in His presence.