Job 33:6-7 - Elihu Speaks

In these verses, Elihu says to Job, "I am just like you before God; I too have been taken from clay. No fear of me should alarm you, nor should my hand be heavy upon you."

What strikes me in this is the word fear. I am reminded of Jesus' words in Matthew 10:26-28 where we are told not to fear man but to fear God.

Yet too often I find myself in the fear of men. I fear criticism or rejection from those I love and respect.

What I have found through the years is that this is precisely the trait that enables bullies to exist. While I am no longer in danger of the bully that will beat me up to take my lunch money, there are yet bullies with which I have to contend.

The airwaves are full of such bullies; the political pundits are prone to becoming bullies. Whether they lean left or right, the bullies force their opinion on others and for the most part real substantive discussion is lacking. Less dangerous, but still using the same M.O., are the sports radio personalities. They are less dangerous because sports do not determine the direction of our government.

Then there are the corporate bullies who force themselves and their opinions on others while climbing the ladder. The force behind the bully's opinion lies in his political skill and not in the merit of the idea. Often the bully forces an idea through that is detrimental to the company and hurts the people with which he works. By the majority of his coworkers not wanting to make waves or risk the displeasure of those higher up in the chain, the bully gets his way.

To avoid the fear of man, I must fear God. Not cower-in-the-corner fear but a fear that holds God in respect and awe. Fortunately, while he is a God to be feared, he has also demonstrated himself to be loving and approachable. He is to be approached with respect and honor, but he is to be approached. When I allow myself to be focused on God, then I am able to set aside my fear of man. If I am in the center of God's will, if I am confident in his pleasure in my walk, then it is easier to let the opinions of others go past with little impact.