28 April 2021 – 1 John 4:18 (NKJV)
Scripture
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.
Reflection
I must have read or come across this verse many times before, but I never saw its true meaning until now. It was so comforting to me, and I can only say that it’s a Holy Spirit revelation because God wants to show me something that is significant and purposeful for this season. With all that is going on in the world today, I sense a sifting by God of things and people all around. Along with that, I’ve been wondering how things will play out, what God is wanting to do and show the world, as the life we’ve known has been changed drastically by a single virus. To be honest, there is a bit of nagging fear in the back of my mind about the uncertainties of the future even though I know I shouldn’t be fearful. 1 John 4:16-17 says:
And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him. Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world.
If God promised us boldness that we can stand in the day of judgment, what have I to fear about anything happening now or tomorrow? The idea of God’s perfect love is somehow new to me again, because it is so different from me trying to comfort myself with scriptures about God’s provision, protection, promises, etc…His love surpasses everything!
This past Easter, I listened to a podcast sermon by R.T. Kendall that gave me new insight about Jesus. In his final moment on the cross, Jesus experienced the worst physical and emotional torment, but also the greatest joy ever known: of the inexpressible relief of his suffering, and the indescribable ecstasy of seeing his Father at any moment. Wow! I never saw Jesus on the cross this way. It’s not to say that I want to be a martyr, but I want the same anticipation and joy of seeing the Father one day. I can’t say that I’m there yet, but I am working on it: to grow in boldness and rest in the perfect love of God.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How will you respond to God’s love for you?
Prayer
Invite the Holy Spirit to be present with you in this moment. And then, wait. Allow God’s peace to draw near.