1 John 4:18 (ESV)
There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.
The solution to love problems and pains is love. Not the same kind of human love that led us there in the first place, but a different kind of love – the divine, perfect love. This is what the apostle of love, John, says drives out fear. In other words, the Christian who has a good understanding and grasp of this love experiences an amazing kind of freedom. Thus, there is no pain deep enough that God’s love cannot penetrate and bring healing. The scars of our past leave us not only scarred but also scared, but when this perfect love is shed across our hearts we are freed.
In numerous passages of Scriptures there is a constant rallying call and refrain, “Do not fear.” Some have argued that this repeats itself over 360 times reminding us not to fear every day. But whether this number is correct or not, the point remains that this is a constant theme throughout the Bible. God knows that there are many things that will come our way and leave us slaves to fear, and that’s why He commands us not to fear. He so pours His love upon us and grants us the privilege of a relationship with Him. Therefore, where our human relationships may have failed us, let us look to our God and Father who can never fail, can never do wrong. Let us be reminded of the precious words of the apostle Paul in Romans 8:15-17:
For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.
Reflections
1. What has been your most impactful devotion this week?
2. What do you need to do to ensure you are constantly experiencing this freedom that comes with love?
