E51: The Fear of the Lord: Taking Our Faith Seriously with Nathan Rychener

How serious are you about your faith? On the latest episode of “Wealth Well Done”, Eric and Pastor Nathan Rychener challenge comfortable Christianity. They discuss the high stakes of judgment day and urge listeners to truly know and obey God, not just check boxes. Nathan emphasizes responding immediately to Holy Spirit's conviction. Don't rely only on secondhand knowledge - regularly read Scripture yourself. This episode will stir you up and make you reconsider your relationship with Christ. 

Here are some topics from today’s discussion:

• Rediscovering the fear of the Lord
• Fear of the Lord for eternal perspective and finances
• Uncovering the true meaning behind the Sermon at the Mount
• Repentance and obedience in Christianity
• Surrendering all to love God

 

Episode Highlights:

[06:34] Rediscovering the Fear of the Lord

In the American church, the fear of the Lord has been lost, along with the reverence, humility, and contrition that accompany it. This absence is evident in our lack of recognition of God's holiness, as seen when Isaiah encountered Him in Isaiah 6. Overwhelmed by a sense of his own unworthiness, Isaiah cried out and fell before the Lord. It is this realization that ignites the fear of the Lord within us. This fear is what safeguards us from sin and compromise, guiding us to walk in integrity and wholeheartedness before God. In an age where this fear is desperately needed, let us seek to rediscover it and cultivate a deep reverence for the Lord.

[10:15] Fear of the Lord for Eternal Perspective and Finances

Without the fear of the Lord, all perspective is lost. We find ourselves chasing after temporary and trivial things of this world, losing sight of eternity and what truly matters. The weight and importance of things in God's eyes fade away when we lack the fear of the Lord. Living for eternity becomes impossible without this reverence. Taking this concept to the realm of money, it becomes clear that faithful handling of finances in light of eternity requires the fear of the Lord residing within our hearts. To gain a proper perspective and live with eternal significance, let us cultivate a deep reverence for God in every aspect of our lives.

[19:27] Genuine Repentance: Actions that Reflect True Transformation

In Acts 26, Paul boldly declares his message of repentance and turning to God to King Agrippa. He emphasizes the importance of performing deeds in line with true repentance. While salvation is a free gift based on the grace of Jesus, it requires action when Jesus says, "Follow me." Paul's message resonates as he urges believers to demonstrate their repentance by taking tangible steps towards change. Whether it's breaking free from addictions or rectifying dishonest practices, genuine repentance calls for actions that align with the transformation of the heart.

[24:43] Wholehearted Devotion: Surrendering All to Love God

In emphasizing the first and most important commandment, Jesus instructs us to love the Lord our God with every aspect of our being - heart, soul, mind, and strength. This goes beyond mere sentimentality; it entails wholehearted devotion and complete surrender to God in every area of our lives. It means obeying Him in all aspects - from our relationships to our finances, from our physical well-being to our business endeavors. True love for God leaves no room for half-heartedness or selective obedience; instead, it encompasses a radical surrender, acknowledging that everything we have belongs to Him, and we willingly follow His guidance in all things.