Wisdom!

The [reverent] fear of the Lord [that is, worshiping Him and regarding Him as truly awesome] is the beginning and the preeminent part of knowledge [its starting point and its essence]; But arrogant fools despise [skillful and godly] wisdom and instruction and self-discipline. PROVERBS 1:7 AMP

Fear is both good and bad, depending on the context and the subject/object of the fear. When you fear man, you have convinced yourself that man has the power of life and death over you. That fear is crippling and burdensome, because you always have to adjust your expectations and life to what man wants. When you fear God, you have convinced yourself that He has the power of life and death over you. However, this fear does not cripple; rather it frees you to live the kind of life that pleases God, because you have known him, his ways, and his expectations for your life.

Please note that you cannot have both. You can't fear God and also fear man at the same time. It is impossible to place your life in God's hands and still allow the desire for man's approval and applause run your life. Fear of God is reverent; it holds God in high regard and acknowledges his power and might. A man who will claim to be truly wise must start the journey to true wisdom through the path of fear and awe of God. When you fear God, you open your heart to God, and you give him access to teach you deep things about him. What was the difference between Saul and David? Saul would sin and still be looking for Samuel's approval and public affirmation; David would run to God for forgiveness. No wonder the end of both of them were different.

Do not also forget: Christ has been declared to be the 'wisdom and the power of God'. You really cannot claim to know or fear God if you reject what he has laid down as the path to life. God calls him the 'Way, the Truth and the Life'. Fools despise and reject godly wisdom and then wonder why their world is falling to pieces. Wise men continually seek God and desire to please him. They receive and adhere to instructions for life and they make impact for God everywhere they go. That is the testimony of a life that fears God. What would it be for you? His time of favour is here.