The Love of GodSample

DAILY SCRIPTURE

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. (1 John 4:18)

THE POWER OF GOD’S LOVE

One of the reasons why God’s love is so powerful in our lives is because it drives out fear.

Fear may be the single biggest reason why we hesitate to step out in faith in our lives. What is interesting about today’s verse from 1 John 4 is that fear is linked with punishment. God’s perfect love drives out fear because there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ (see Romans 8:1). We ultimately have nothing to fear because of God’s powerful love for us through Christ.

For many of us, living a life free from fear sounds fantastic, but it's easier said than done. Thankfully, our Father always meets us right where we are at and helps us at our point of need. In John 14:27 Jesus says,

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

We are also given this wonderful promise in Philippians 4:6-7,

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

As with everything in the Kingdom, this peace is accessed by faith. Faith in who God is, faith in his word, faith in the promises he has given to us in our lives, faith in his love, faith in his faithfulness. As we continue to trust in Jesus and walk with him, his powerful love drives out all our fear, allowing us to move deeper into the freedom that he has purchased for us.

THOUGHTS FOR PRAYER AND REFLECTION

• Galatians 5:1 says, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
  What do you think this passage means and how does it apply to your life?
• Spend some time asking God if there are any areas where fear is impacting your life. What do you feel God is saying to you about this?