In order to come to a true understanding reality, we must begin with the fear of the LORD. Though the word of God teaches that all men possess some knowledge of the true God, we read in the book of Romans that, because of our sinful rebellion against God,

both our thinking and our hearts have become darkened.

Speaking of all mankind, Paul writes the following: "For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature,

have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking,

and their foolish hearts were darkened." (Romans 1:19–21)

To gain knowledge that is not darkened by the effects of sin on our minds and hearts, we must begin with the fear of the LORD. We must humble ourselves before the God who has revealed himself in Scripture.

We must acknowledge that apart from him, all our thinking is futile. We must confess that we are sinners, in need of his grace and help.

Only by beginning with humble submission to the God of the Bible can we reach a true understanding of reality.