Without the fear of the Lord, we risk becoming lukewarm and allowing sin to creep into our lives. Healthy fear protects us from danger and we need to have a healthy fear of sin, because sin hardens our hearts, numbs our consciences, and can even kill our faith. God is gracious, forgiving and merciful, but grace isn’t only about forgiveness: we need to allow the power of the Gospel to change us. Fear of the Lord causes us to run away from everything that leads to death and run towards Him, to receive His grace, mercy and love.