Day 340: Daniel 5-6; 1 John 4
"There is no fear in love [dread does not exist]. But perfect (complete, full-grown) love drives out fear, because fear involves [the expectation of divine] punishment, so the one who is afraid [of God’s judgment] is not perfected in love [has not grown into a sufficient understanding of God’s love]. We love, because He first loved us." (1 John 4:18-19, AMP)
Love's nature is giving. Twice in 1 John 4 we are reminded that we only love because God loved us first. In the first mention, John connects God's prototype of love with the cross...He gave His Son, the atoning sacrifice for our sin (vv.9-10). Having responded to God's love, naturally, we love. Yes, naturally because God created us to be like Him, and love is the core of His nature. Here, our hearts do not condemn us, for by God's gracious love we are completely forgiven and restored to a right relationship with Him. There is no room for dread, instead there is the freedom to love freely. Yes, He has set me free to live love. Beloved, let us love one another!
Love's nature is giving. Twice in 1 John 4 we are reminded that we only love because God loved us first. In the first mention, John connects God's prototype of love with the cross...He gave His Son, the atoning sacrifice for our sin (vv.9-10). Having responded to God's love, naturally, we love. Yes, naturally because God created us to be like Him, and love is the core of His nature. Here, our hearts do not condemn us, for by God's gracious love we are completely forgiven and restored to a right relationship with Him. There is no room for dread, instead there is the freedom to love freely. Yes, He has set me free to live love. Beloved, let us love one another!
2 Comments
The closer I feel to God, fear of punishment grows less. Many ,many years I have been afraid. My past taught me that. Looking ahead to being in God's Presence and knowing I am accepted and loved.
Yes! What a joyous discovery! Amen!