Love or Fear?

Just about all of our reactions to things are either out of love or fear. You would study something either because you love the subject or because you fear failing. You would do household work either because you love your parents and want to help out or because you fear their anger. You would complete the work your boss gives you either because you love what you do or you fear getting fired. You would hang out with a particular group of people either because you love being with them or because you have the fear of missing out (FOMO). Similarly, you would try to live a life pleasing to God, either out of love for Him and what He has done, or in fear of the impending judgment. Fear can be a great propellant, but it matters what becomes the source of that fear.

Our relationship with the Father will either be out of love or out of fear. Here’s how we know the difference: when we mess up, those who live in fear will seek anyone but the Father. On the side, those who live in love will seek no one but the Father. It’s the difference in saying, “I messed up! What will my Father do?” and “I messed up! Let me see what my Father can do!”

A relationship with the Father that is based solely out of fear will lead us to think we need to constantly earn His favor. Here’s where we need to remind ourselves of the love that God has for us and learn to live in the love that He has lavished upon us. It is the acknowledgement of that love and our status as a son or daughter that will transform the way we live.

We need to work towards aligning ourselves with His presence and acknowledge what He has already done for us. Learn not to wallow in guilt and self pity, but seek the Father at all times. To do this is to live as sons and daughters and not orphans; to live in love and not fear!

Reflection

How would you describe your relationship with the Father? Do you consider yourself His family, or would you be honest to say that part of you still feels like you have to earn His approval? Pray a short prayer to God, starting with “My Father, in Heaven…” and see how the Holy Spirit guides and directs your conversation with Him based on His great love.