“Show your fear of God by not taking advantage of each other. I am the Lord your God.”
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Leviticus‬ ‭25‬:‭17‬ ‭NLT

There’s a difference between having a fear of the Lord and living it out. A true fear of the Lord relies heavily on God’s providence. An American version of this providence is self reliance. It is a false gospel that preaches that we are our own savior by way of our efforts. God’s role in this is only the gift of stewardship. He gives us the resources to provide and we use them to provide for ourselves. However, we can clearly see that this isn’t what citizenship looks like to God. Although good stewardship is an aspect of our citizenship, it doesn’t create it. Just as with manna, those who try to bottle providence end up spoiling it. This is also reflected in the idea of jubilee and the day of atonement. God makes it clear that what he gives should be treated well and blessing ought to be gleaned from it, but it ultimately doesn’t belong to us. No matter how wealthy we are, atonement and jubilee reset categories for our lives. This isn’t done randomly. All transactions are to be made with this in mind and accordingly. Too many Christians do not practice this philosophy in the blessings they have been given. Whether business or personal transactions, they bypass rather than incorporate jubilee and end up missing out on joy.

True Fear of the Lord: Relies on God’s providence, not self-reliance.

Stewardship vs. Citizenship: Good stewardship is important, but it doesn’t create citizenship in God’s eyes.

Jubilee and Atonement: God’s gifts should be treated well, but ultimately belong to Him, and transactions should reflect this.