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 (NIV)
No Fear
Back in 2005, a list of reasons why the world should fear Canada was published. Among other things, it recorded “Ninety percent of population is massed within 100 miles of northern American border. Seems not to mind that one of its provinces has turned almost entirely French. Excessive politeness only makes sense as cover for something truly sinister. But what? Citizens seem strangely impervious to cold. Has infiltrated entertainment industry with singers, actors, and comedians practically indistinguishable from their American counterparts.”
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God gave His law to the people of Israel in order for them to understand His holiness and justice. He needed His people to represent Him in this world. But as sinful human beings—and we all are —it was impossible for them to keep the law. The result was that the law made their sin even more evident and their shame even greater. Because God loved them, He put into place His plan—He would provide a redeemer who would prove to His people just how much He loved them. So it shouldn’t surprise us that the apostle John, who in his Gospel referred to himself as the disciple whom Jesus loved, wrote this in 1 John 4:18: “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.” God’s love reached its apex in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. When we place our faith and trust in Jesus, our sin is removed, and fear of judgment is as well. The perfect love of Jesus sets us free to live a life of holiness and victory.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley