This kind of dread would not be experienced by those acting in harmony with godly wisdom, those always having reverential awe of the Creator.​—Pr 1:33; 3:24, 25; 28:14.

Also the evidence of divinely inspired courage and strength may bring about a wholesome dread and an obedient response. Thus, when King Saul forcefully appealed to the Israelites to join in the defense of Jabesh-gilead, they were filled with “the dread of Jehovah” and responded “as one man.”​—1Sa 11:7.

A wholesome dread of Jehovah, reflected in a desire to shun what He disapproves, is vital if a person is to remain his servant. This dread made it possible for Job to be blameless and upright. (Job 1:1; 23:15; 31:23) And it enabled the psalmist to persevere in a divinely favored course despite the persecution by princes. (Ps 119:120, 161) Jehoshaphat encouraged appointed judges to have this proper dread so that they would be impartial in rendering just decisions.​—2Ch 19:5-7.

Jehovah is the Protector and Sustainer of his people. So there is no reason for one to be in dread of men, manifesting intense fear of what they might do, and so yield to their improper demands. (Ps 27:1; 78:53; 91:2-5; Isa 12:2) But this does not mean that servants of God will never suffer in the present system of things. At times they do find themselves in a pitiable, disadvantaged position. Not discerning that such ones are still the objects of Jehovah’s care, faithless persons may abandon them in dread, not wanting to share their seemingly hopeless lot. (Ps 31:11) But Jehovah will not forsake them.​—Ps 27:10; 94:14.