Fear Not

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.
1 John 4:18

At first, very small children are reluctant to admit to their wrongdoings. At the heart of their reluctance is fear. But in a loving environment a transformation gradually takes place. Children become willing to admit their misdeeds because their confidence in their parents’ love for them is unwavering. When love is given and received—when love becomes the unconditional norm—it removes fear from the relationship.

The same is true in our relationship with God. John wrote, “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear.” Fear of what? Fear of punishment, of banishment, of the end of the relationship. But such is never the case with God’s unconditional love. His love for us is not based on our good deeds but on His choice. His love is the reflection of His character. Even if we sin, God “is faithful and just to forgive us our sins” (1 John 1:9). God has demonstrated His love for us in Jesus Christ (Romans 5:8). We should never fear being separated from His love by anything (Romans 8:35-39).

Are you secure in God’s love? Let His love remove all fear from your heart and mind.