The Fear of Man vs. The Fear of the Lord: Finding Freedom in God’s Approval
“The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe.” — Proverbs 29:25
The fear of man is subtle, yet it has the power to control us. It shows up in the quiet pressure to please people, the hesitation to speak truth, and the way our mood rises and falls based on others’ opinions.
When we live for approval, we become slaves to it. It shapes our decisions, our words, and even our obedience to God — often without us realizing it.
This is why Scripture warns us that the fear of man lays a trap. It keeps us stuck in cycles of comparison, anxiety, and striving. But God offers us a better way.
The Fear That Brings True Freedom
While the fear of man enslaves, there’s a different kind of fear that sets us free — the fear of the Lord.
This isn’t a trembling dread before a cruel master, but a reverent awe before a holy, all-powerful God. It’s a posture of the heart that recognizes who He is and places Him above every other voice in our lives.
When we see God rightly, the opinions of others lose their grip on us. We begin to live for the One whose approval matters most. A heart that fears God truly fears nothing else.
Two Competing Masters
Every day, we face a choice:
The fear of man tells us to fit in, be liked, and avoid conflict at any cost.
The fear of the Lord calls us to faithfulness, even when it costs us reputation, comfort, or relationships.
One leads to bondage; the other leads to freedom. As Jesus reminds us:
“Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear Him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” — Matthew 10:28
When our hearts are anchored in the fear of the Lord, we can stand firm, even when it’s hard.
Living for God’s Approval, Not Man’s Applause
People-pleasing often leaves us exhausted, anxious, and spiritually dry. But Scripture calls us to something higher: living for God’s glory above all else.
When we choose to fear God instead of man:
We find courage to speak truth in love, even when it’s unpopular.
We gain confidence in God’s purpose, even when we face criticism or rejection.
We walk in freedom, knowing that our worth comes from Christ — not from others.
This shift doesn’t happen overnight, but as we anchor our hearts in Scripture and prayer, God transforms the way we see ourselves and the world around us.
Reflection Questions
Take a moment to reflect:
In what areas of my life am I seeking the approval of others more than God?
How would a deeper fear of the Lord change the way I respond to criticism or rejection?
What practical steps can I take this week to live for God’s approval above all else?
A Prayer for Courage
Lord, free my heart from the snare of fearing people. Teach me to treasure Your approval above all else. Give me boldness to walk in obedience, even when it’s hard, and help me live each day in the freedom that comes from fearing You alone. Amen.
Final Encouragement
The fear of man will always keep us striving, but the fear of the Lord sets us free. God didn’t call you to live for the applause of people — He called you to live for His glory.
When you anchor your identity in Him, you’ll discover a peace and confidence that nothing — and no one — can take away.
Meet the Author
Shannah Goodman
Shannah is a devoted wife and homemaker who lives in Florida with her husband and their children: boy/girl twins, Jude and Opal, and baby Esther. Her life with three under three is beautifully chaotic—full of joy, noise, messes, and constant reminders of her deep need for Jesus.
She loves cooking from scratch, thrifting for vintage treasures, hosting others in her home, and singing praises to the Lord. She is passionate about encouraging other women to cling to Jesus by anchoring their hearts in the truths and promises of His Word.
