The Two Kinds of Fear of God

81. Fear of God is of two kinds. The first is generated in us by the threat of punishment. It is through such fear that we develop in due order self-control, patience, hope in God and dispassion; and it is from dispassion that love comes. The second kind of fear is linked with love and constantly produces reverence in the soul, so that it does not grow indifferent to God because of the intimate communion of its love.

St. Maximus the Confessor Four Hundred Centuries on Love: #81

Maximus the Confessor distinguishes between two kinds of fear of God. The first is generated by the threat of punishment, leading to self-control, patience, hope in God, and dispassion. From dispassion comes love. The second kind of fear is linked with love and produces reverence in the soul, preventing it from becoming indifferent to God due to the intimate communion of love.

Imagine a child learning to avoid dangerous behavior due to fear of punishment. This fear is necessary for developing basic virtues such as self-control and patience. Over time, as the child matures, this fear transforms into a deeper respect and love for the parents, resulting in a more profound and voluntary adherence to their guidance.

Similarly, the initial fear of God helps us develop fundamental virtues and leads us towards dispassion. As we grow spiritually, this fear evolves into a reverential awe, rooted in love. This mature fear, intertwined with love, keeps us attentive and devoted to God, nurturing an intimate and enduring relationship with Him.