Fear of the Lord, one of the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit,can sometimes be misunderstood when compared to our perception of anall-merciful God. 

When we do something dangerous, we most certainly feel fear. Children fear a parent when he/she has disobeyed and knows there will be consequences, as imple human fear.  But, as a gift of theHoly Spirit, it is a different fear, a Holy Fear. Recognizing God as all-powerful, all-merciful, and yet He takes notice of us.  This Holy Fear is not us hiding in the corner feeling chastised for our frailties and sinfulness, but rather a Holy Fear of veneration and praise acknowledging His omnipotence and presence in our lives. It really is an over-whelming and beautiful gift given to us. An opportunity for us to show our reverence and faithfulness to Him, Who has done great things for us.  “What is man that you should be mindful of him”  (Psalms 8:5)