From Fear to Reverence - a Journey of Wisdom and Intimacy With GodSample

The Love that Casts Out Fear

The fear of the Lord leads us to a life of obedience and reverence, but it is God's love that frees us from fear. The apostle John reminds us that "there is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear" (1 John 4:18). Fear can paralyze us and distance us from God, making us feel unworthy of His presence. However, when we understand and experience God's love, we are freed from this paralyzing fear and moved to trust fully in His character and promises.

David, once again, offers us an example of how God's love can transform our lives. When he had the opportunity to kill Saul, his pursuer, he chose to spare Saul's life, trusting that God was just and would take care of his cause (1 Samuel 26:10-11). David was not moved by fear of Saul but by his fear of the Lord and his trust in God's love and justice. He knew that God would take care of him and that he did not need to take matters into his own hands.

This trust in God's love is what allows us to face challenges and trials without giving in to fear. When we understand that God loves us and takes care of us, we can rest in the certainty that He is in control, even when circumstances are difficult. God's love is perfect and sufficient to sustain and protect us.