The short answer: depends on your point of view. (Hmm... sounds like a line from Obi-wan Kenobi.)
The believer in Christ sees the Consuming Fire as good. A wonderful refining tool (Malachi 3:3). He burns away anything that is not glorifying to himself. Only the purest of gold and silver will remain in the furnace of the Consuming Fire. The believer wants to be refined. Craves the purity.
The non-believer in Christ sees the Consuming Fire as bad. A tool of destruction for a life of personal desires and greed. He burns away anything glorifying to the individual. The individual wanting to hold close all the impurities which they hold on to. The non-believer does not want refining. Craves themselves.
Hmm. It's like the Jedi and the Sith. Never heard of them? Really? Have you lived under a rock for 40 years? If you didn't know, the Jedi and Sith are from the Star Wars films. The Jedi act selflessly. The Sith act for themselves. If you're still lost you'll need about 14 hours of free time to catch up. Good luck. Moving on...
God, as Consuming Fire, refines our worship. The writer of Hebrews declares, "Let us offer acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire" (Hebrews 12:28-29). The Message puts it this way... Be not just thankful, but brimming with worship, deeply reverent before God. For God is not an indifferent bystander. He's actively cleaning house, torching all that needs to burn, and he won't quit until its all cleansed. God himself is Fire!
As you and I stand before God in worship, his refining hand is at work. Consuming Fire is burning away anything that is not glorifying to him. What is pleasing to him in worship? Hearts seeking him. Honestly. Fully. Surrendered.
It's not about "acting" a certain way. Its about "being" a certain way. When you dive into his presence and give him all you've got. That's reverent. Because that's what he wants. You. Surrendered self. In spirit and truth (John 4:24). That's what is acceptable.
The question is... Do you desire the Consuming Fire? Will you accept the pain it can cause for the everlasting value?
worship Him 24/7...
scott
PS - Many believers debate over whether or not clapping, jumping, celebrating in worship is irreverent. If you are a reader of this blog you know where I stand. What do you think? Feel free to comment below!