Re: why do we fear God?
I think ppl have mentioned it above, but fear of Allah SWT goes hand-in-hand with expecting His Mercy (in this life and the next)...
“And My mercy encompasses all things, and I shall decree it for those who fear Me.” Sûrah al-A`râf : 156]
“He is worthy of being feared and worthy of granting forgiveness.” Sûrah al-Muddaththir : 56]
“And whoever fears Allah – He will pardon him his sins and grant him a great reward.” Sûrah al-Talâq : 5]
And those who believe in Allah SWT dont always fear him as suggested above... the most central act of worship; salat, how many ppl do we know who dont offer them regularly? or offer it whenever it is convenient to them!