Proverbs 13:13 Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.
The promise embedded in this proverb typically black or white, life or death, good or evil. The end result is dependent upon our attitude toward the Word of God. If one despises it, then there will be for him destruction and death; if one fears it, then there for him reward and life.
”Despising” means ignoring, treating as indifferent, not listening, believing, or wanting to do it; “Fearing” means paying attention, treating as important, listening, believing, wanting to do it. One reaps destruction, the other reward. It is for this reason that “going to church” is so vital for life and well being. “Blessed is he who hears the word of God and keeps it.” But we remember: it is not the outward action alone, but the inner spirit that is at issue.
We do not do it for the reward, but it is encouraging to know that there is a reward in it: things go better when we are in a healthy relationship with God and His Word. We fear (believe) and love God so that we desire to keep, and get better at keeping, the Law. And when we fail, we repent and believe the Gospel of the forgiveness of sins. We must be told there is a reward for “fearing the commandment” since we cannot see the direct connection. Thus we believe the promise.