What does Psalm 130:4 mean?

This verse adds context to the idea that we should "fear" the Lord God (Proverbs 1:7; 14:26–27). God's judgment is perfect (Psalm 130:3). No one can meet His standards of holiness (Romans 3:10). His judgment on sin is beyond question and inescapable (Hebrews 9:27). Yet it is His forgiveness which is said to inspire this "fear." Some translations mention "reverence" instead. This is appropriate, but the proper response to God goes beyond respect. Those who love God don't need to respond to Him with panic or terror. Knowing that He forgives those who come in sincere faith (1 John 1:8–10) inspires His people to honor Him as their Lord and Savior (Exodus 18:21; Job 1:9; Ecclesiastes 12:13; Acts 13:16).

Isaiah recorded the idea that God intends to forgive the sins of those who come to Him (Isaiah 1:5–6, 18). Scripture speaks volumes about God's forgiveness. Psalm 103:11–12 indicates that He puts the forgiven person's sins as far as the east is from the west. Micah 7:19 says he casts them into the sea. Isaiah 38:17 pictures Him as setting them behind Him, no longer considering those sins. Colossians 1:13–14 declares that those who are in Christ have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Having been forgiven, believers should reverence God—they should "fear" Him—and serve Him joyfully.