OUTLINE:

Healthy vs. Unhealthy Fear
There is a good, righteous fear to behold and there is a dangerous, unrighteous fear we must deny. We are able to discern the difference by learning the Word of God, listening to the Spirit (including through your pastor), and prayer.

Identification Requires Light
Whenever we think about identifying truth, we must think about “light”. (Ps 27:1-7; 119:97-105; Jn 8:12)

Walking In the Light
Standing/walking in the Light means we cannot be fooled or deceived by darkness.

“foolish” - from aphron
[a = "without" + phren = "inner perspective as it regulates behavior”] – means to lack perspective because of short-sightedness, i.e. lacking the “big- picture" perspective needed to act prudently.

“understand” - from suniemi
means to arrive at a summary or final understanding (complete with life- applications); is closely connected with discerning and doing the preferred-will of God.

Fear God, Not Man
True, healthy fear of God leads to faith in Christ as one's Lord and Savior, resulting in salvation from a God who extends His never-ending mercy towards those who repent and believe. (Pr 14:26-27, Lk 12:4-7)