As I read this Psalm, I am struck by a question: have I ever obeyed someone solely out of fear? It is a strange idea, and a quote from one of my favorite movies, Star Wars, pops into my head: "The more you tighten your grip, the more star systems will slip through your fingers."
The rebel princess, Leia, says this to a leader of the evil Imperial army, right before her home planet is destroyed. She will have the last laugh, remaining faithful to her rebellious and good cause, and her quote reminded me of this verse.
It leads me to another thought: obedience due to fear is one thing, but obedience due to fearing you will let God done is entirely different.
In Star Wars, citizens obey the Imperial army out of sheer terror, fearful of punishment and death. King David was no stranger to sin, but he obediently served the Lord until his last days.
King David knew how powerful God's might was, but more importantly, he knew how powerful God's love for him was. He did not want to let God down; he did not want to disobey; he was afraid of disappointing the God that had granted him every desire (2 Samuel 23:5).
God does not want to hurt us; He wants to love us. Obediently serve Him to the best of your abilities, as King David did, and have nothing to fear.
