There Is No Fear in Love (1 John 4:18)

2023-08-05

And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. (1 John 4:16-18)

What does it mean that there is no fear in love? Perhaps a few thoughts. If we know the love that God has for us, we can trust Him. We are not afraid that He is out to get us or will lie to us or break His promises. We are past His wrath; we will not know the eternal torment of the world.

Again, who would we fear in this life? There should be no room to fear others because we are not concerned with what happens to us. Our cares are on others. If we love others, we will not fear them, because we are too busy looking out for their best.

Abiding in the love of God (God is love), the fear of all circumstances fades away. The fear of judgment fades away.

As a competitive swimmer years ago, we had a tough head coach who would be quick to yell and condemn. On very rare occasions, this coach would not be at practice for whatever reason. I found myself performing better in those practices. Why? The perceived fear and judgment were gone. I was free to swim hard for the love of the sport.

Likewise, our condemnation is gone. We do not have to worry about whether we are accepted by God. In Christ, that whole matter is settled. We are now free to serve without ulterior motives. The Spirit is free to work in us. Let this mind be in us.