Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient. (Romans 1:21-28)
James gave a warning to those who seek positions of leadership. He said, “Don’t be so quick to make that jump to the top.” He said there would be a greater condemnation to those who stand in leadership positions if they don’t listen and respond to what God is saying.
It seems as if more and more often these days, we encounter people who entirely lack moral values. The Apostle Paul wrote about people who once knew God but failed to glorify Him or thank Him. As a result, their hearts became clouded with vanity and darkness. They stopped fearing God and their lives fell apart.
Those who lose the fear of the Lord always lose their way. The fear of the Lord does not mean being afraid of God or cowering before a powerful, vengeful deity. It means respecting Him and honoring Him as He deserves.
Our society was once a God-fearing society. We have departed far from that now.
Since we live in a world that calls good evil and evil good, our honor and respect for God stands out and gives us the opportunity to be beacons of light in a dark world.
Practical Application
Remember to intercede on behalf of those in the world. Pray that the eyes of their understanding is enlightened and they return to the fear of the Lord.