This Proverb says, “The fear of man brings a snare, but he who trusts in the Lord will be exalted.” Fear comes in many forms. One form may be concern. For example a person may be concerned with how they are viewed by others. So, a person may do or say things contrary to their values. They may do this to be popular with a certain group of people. For example, they may degrade another person just to get along with the crowd. This may please the crowd. However, it will probably not please God. Therefore, it would be a snare or damaging to a person’s walk with the Lord.
Another form of fear is to fear for one’s life. The Bible says that in the end times there will be a demonic and powerful ruler who will demand people’s obedience. He will demand that people worship him. This person will even control the economy, demanding that people have specific mark on their forehead or wrist in order to purchase anything.
MARK OF THE BEAST
It is logical to assume that this ‘mark’ is a biologically implanted computer chip that operates much like a credit card. Those who do not have the ‘mark’ will not be able to buy or sell anything. The Bible says that those who submit to this evil ruler and agree to taking the ‘mark’ will not be allowed into Heaven after they die. During this horrible time a person must trust in God and not take the ‘mark’ if they want to avoid being cast into Hell after they die.
The Bible is quite clear on this. The Bible says, “If anyone worships the beast and his image and receives the mark on his forehead or in his hand, he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of God. He shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lord. Their torment ascends forever and ever and they have no rest day and night who worshipped the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name.”
Therefore, taking the ‘mark’ would be the wrong decision. The right decision would be to trust God and refuse the ‘mark.’ This may well result in a person’s physical death. However it would result in eternal paradise in Heaven with God.
