THE DANGER OF LACKING RESPECT FOR GOD
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Malachi 1:6-8
Supporting Texts: Ecclesiastes 12:13, Hebrews 12:28-29, Romans 1:21-25, Proverbs 1:7, Acts 5:1-11
INTRODUCTION:
Respect for God, often described in Scripture as the “fear of the Lord,” is foundational to living a godly life. Reverence for God entails honouring Him, esteeming His Word, obeying His commandments, and living in awe of His holiness and majesty. It is a sign of true spiritual maturity and sincere worship.
However, in today’s world, there is a growing tendency to treat God casually, to handle holy things with contempt, and to forget that our God is also a consuming fire. The lack of reverence has led many into sin, spiritual blindness, and ultimately destruction.
The Bible warns of the consequences of dishonouring God. When we lose respect for Him, we open ourselves up to deception, rebellion, and divine judgment. This message is a call to return to a posture of humility, honour, and holy reverence before God.
1. DISRESPECT FOR GOD LEADS TO SPIRITUAL DEGENERATION
A person who no longer honours God is on a dangerous spiritual path.
a) No Fear of God Leads to Foolishness (Proverbs 1:7)
Disregarding God’s authority opens the door to spiritual ignorance and rebellion.
b) Disrespect Produces Ingratitude (Romans 1:21)
When people fail to glorify God, they become unthankful and morally darkened.
c) Treating God as Common Invites Corruption (Malachi 1:6-7)
Israel’s priests brought polluted offerings because they no longer feared God.
d) Lack of Reverence Weakens Discernment (Romans 1:25)
Those who dishonour God exchange His truth for lies.
Biblical Example: King Belshazzar desecrated the holy vessels of God and lost his kingdom in one night. (Daniel 5:1-31)
2. LACK OF RESPECT FOR GOD LEADS TO DISOBEDIENCE AND DEFIANCE
Those who do not revere God’s Word and presence will live in disobedience.
a) Reverence Inspires Obedience (Ecclesiastes 12:13)
Fearing God compels us to keep His commandments.
b) Irreverence Breeds Careless Living (Judges 2:10-11)
A generation that forgot God did evil in His sight.
c) God Requires Honour and Holy Living (Leviticus 10:3)
Those who draw near to Him must regard Him as holy.
d) God Will Judge Irreverent Behaviour (Hebrews 12:28-29)
Our God is a consuming fire; He is not to be trifled with.
Biblical Example: Ananias and Sapphira lied to the Holy Spirit and were struck dead for irreverence. (Acts 5:1-11)
3. DISRESPECT FOR GOD HINDERS PRAYERS AND WORSHIP
God does not respond to those who approach Him irreverently or insincerely.
a) Worship Must Be in Spirit and Truth (John 4:24)
God is not impressed with outward performance but inward reverence.
b) Unrepentant Hearts Close Heaven’s Doors (Isaiah 1:15)
When hands are lifted in hypocrisy, God hides His face.
c) Casual Worship Weakens the Church (Matthew 15:8-9)
Lip-service without heart-honour is empty worship.
d) God Expects Reverence in His Sanctuary (Psalm 89:7)
He is greatly to be feared in the assembly of His saints.
Biblical Example: The sons of Eli (Hophni and Phinehas) dishonoured God’s altar and were judged. (1 Samuel 2:12-17; 4:10-11)
4. RESTORING THE FEAR OF GOD BRINGS BLESSING AND GLORY
When people return to honouring God, revival, favour, and divine presence follow.
a) The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom (Proverbs 9:10)
A respectful heart receives divine instruction and guidance.
b) Reverence Brings God’s Attention and Favour (Isaiah 66:2)
God looks to those who tremble at His Word.
c) Honour for God Leads to Honour from God (1 Samuel 2:30)
He honours those who honour Him.
d) A Reverent Church Will Experience God’s Glory (2 Chronicles 7:1-3)
When the people bowed in worship, God’s glory filled the temple.
Biblical Example: The early church walked in the fear of the Lord and grew in numbers and power. (Acts 9:31)
CONCLUSION:
A lack of respect for God is a serious spiritual problem with grave consequences. It leads to disobedience, judgment, powerless worship, and spiritual death. But when we return to reverence, humility, and holy fear, God draws near with His presence, blessings, and glory.
Let us examine our hearts and rekindle our reverence for God. Let our thoughts, words, and actions reflect that we truly honour Him. May the fear of the Lord be restored in our personal lives, families, and churches.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, restore the fear of You in my heart and in Your church.
2. Father, forgive me for any way I have dishonoured Your presence.
3. Teach me to live a life that pleases You in holiness and reverence.
4. Let my worship and prayers always come before You with sincerity and truth.
5. Raise in this generation men and women who tremble at Your Word.
