Machshava:

Chassidut 

Collections: Rabbi Weinberger: Bilvavi I

Description

When we are growing spiritually we should focus on fear of Hashem's greatness. When we are falling spiritually we should focus on yiras ha'onesh (fear of punishment). One of the safest mechanisms to prevent slipping further spiritually is yiras ha'onesh. Attaining yiras ha'onesh is joyous since it is Hashem's will. Inner awareness of yirah is rejoicing with trembling when there is no sadness. We can cleave to Hashem even in gehinom (hell). Anything that takes us away from deveikus (cleaving) with Hashem is tragic.