“There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.” 1 John 4:18
August 26, 2026
None of us are exempt from fear. There is a good fear, the fear of the Lord. However, there is a fear we need not have. John wants his readers to understand the importance of making the invisible God visible through the love of Christ. This love is made possible in our lives by the Holy Spirit. Hold on to this: A life lived with love will give us boldness in the day of judgment. At the judgment seat of Christ the believer’s life’s work will be assessed. We who are believers in Christ can have confidence that God will approve the quality of life lived Christ-like. Love looks for opportunities to give. Fear keeps a wary eye on possible consequences of involvement in the lives of others. Love lays down its life for others (1 Jn. 3:16). Fear will not take personal risks to help others. Love is busy with today’s tasks and doesn’t worry about tomorrow (Matt. 6:34). Fear worries about tomorrow and fails to undertake responsibilities today. “Lord, grant me the grace to love more and fear less.”
H
Reflection:
What fears are controlling me: people, death, loss of control, pain?
Do I suffer panic attacks? Why is this?