“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 (NKJV)
It really is that simple for believers. We are going to experience moments of fear. Possibly a family member is very ill. Perhaps a person you rely on breaks your trust. Maybe it is your finances.
John offered this scripture not to condemn us, but to remind us in whom our freedom is found. And to be encouraged that the enemy is defeated in the name of Jesus. He overcame everything the world threw at Him until His accusers finally had their way and put Him to death. What greater fear could there be than carrying a heavy cross up a hill with the crowds jeering and knowing you were about to be brutally murdered for crimes you didn’t commit.
But death could not hold our Lord- physically, spiritually, mentally or emotionally. In His last minutes on the cross, He says, ““Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” Luke 23:34 (NKJV) Just a short time before this, Jesus had pleaded with His Father in the garden at Gethsemane, “He (Jesus) went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, ‘O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.’” Matthew 26-39 (NKJV)
Life has challenges. We are being watched by our family, friends, and others, to see how we respond to difficulties. When we show that we can rise above the circumstance we are facing because of our faith in our Savior, we are giving a testimony to others that is far more powerful than words.
No matter how frightening it may seem in the first instance, thanks to God, we can be certain that our Father who loves us will provide the relief that is needed because of His perfect love for us.
Whew! We can be thankful about that!