Want God’s Protection? Here’s How the Fear of the Lord Keeps You Safe

We’re Not Promised Safety—But We Are Promised God’s Protection

I know this might sound intense, but I believe it with my whole heart: some people die prematurely—not because God wanted it, but because they made foolish, dangerous choices outside of His protection.

Now, before you hit the panic button, hear me out.

This isn’t about fear-based religion—it’s about understanding a powerful truth: when you fear the Lord, you start living differently. And that kind of life often steers you away from destructive paths.

The Fear of the Lord = Healthy Boundaries

Let me put it this way: when you submit to God, it’s like setting up a spiritual fence around your life. Not to keep you from good things—but to keep you from disaster.

Because here’s what I know:

There will be moments when you’re tempted to do something risky… dumb… impulsive… and the fear of the Lord will whisper, “Don’t go there.”

And that whisper might just save your life.

I Almost Got Shot Cow-Tipping… Seriously.

Can I be real with you?

Back in college, Katie and I were always chasing fun. One night, a group of us had the brilliant idea to go cow tipping. Yes, cow tipping.

Middle of the night. Private property. Polk County.

We’re out there running through fields like idiots, trying to tip cows, when the light on a nearby farmhouse turns on.

Y’all—I almost died. Not from a cow. From a shotgun. Because that farmer was well within his rights to protect his property.

If I had died that night, it wouldn’t have been “God’s sovereign plan.”

It would’ve been the result of a dumb decision.

What would’ve protected me? The fear of the Lord. A sense of, “This isn’t wise. This isn’t submitted to God.”

The Bible Says It Straight

“The fear of the Lord adds length to life, but the years of the wicked are cut short.” —Proverbs 10:27

“Whoever fears the Lord has a secure fortress, and for their children it will be a refuge.” —Proverbs 14:26

That’s not poetic fluff. That’s God’s Word.

If you want longevity, if you want safety, if you want peace in the chaos—you need the fear of the Lord operating in your life.

Why This Matters for You—and Your Family

God’s protection isn’t just for you—it extends to the people around you. When you walk in reverent submission to God, you create a spiritual covering for your marriage, your kids, and your home.

And in a world full of uncertainty? That covering matters more than ever.

The Bible calls it a secure fortress—a place of safety when everything else feels unstable.

Key Takeaways

• The fear of the Lord isn’t about being scared—it’s about living submitted.
• When you live God’s way, you avoid unnecessary danger.
• God’s protection flows from a posture of surrender.
• Your reverence for God brings peace and security to your entire household.

Final Encouragement

Listen, I don’t know what kind of “risky decision” you might be considering—or what situation you’re in where you feel unsafe or unsure—but I do know this:

If you’ll submit your life to God and take Him seriously, He’ll surround you with His protection. He’ll give you the wisdom to say no to things that might destroy you. He’ll cover your family when the world feels unstable. And He’ll keep your life aligned with His perfect plan.

Let’s Keep Growing

📍If you’re in the Tampa Bay area, I’d love for you to visit one of our Radiant Church locations this Sunday.

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—Pastor Aaron