“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love.”
—1 John 4:18 

Reflection

Since God is love, there is no fear in Him. We are to allow His love to have full sway in our life, so that we will be able to be perfected in Him. The love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who was given to us. We need to choose love. As we walk in the love of God, fear will have a hard time finding roots in our hearts.

The same love that dwells in us is the very same love that motivated the Father in giving us Jesus. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son” (John 3:16). Overcoming fear is a major biblical theme. It is clear throughout the Scriptures that God wants us to rise above all fear and be completely free from its grip. The time to enter into this living reality is now.

But in our fight against fear, it is important to remember that it is all about God. Jesus gave us a principle to build our lives upon: seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Jesus is really talking about everything here, not just food and clothing. He continues, “Do not worry about tomorrow.”

We are to believe that God, who is bigger than our fear, is fighting for us. He is with us, and He goes before us. Sometimes we lack the faith to realize that He is involved in our lives in an intimate way and concerned about the details of our life here on earth. But beloved, even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear. You are more valuable than many sparrows.

When the disciples were struggling on the sea, Jesus came to them and said, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.” (Matthew 14:27) When Peter stepped out of the boat, he walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he looked at the wind instead of Jesus, he became frightened and began to sink.

The same thing happens to us when we are not trusting God, seizing His Word, and spending time with Him. We begin to sink under the circumstances of our life. Doubting God’s Word, doubting God’s presence, and doubting His character robs us of victory.

The courage we need comes from faith. When we have our eyes fixed on Jesus, we are victorious. Beloved, when we exercise faith in God’s love and in His Word, realizing that the Lord is with us, peace comes and fear begins to evaporate. We are to believe and take courage. Stand confidently upon the Lord’s Word and look to Jesus.

God is much bigger than our fear.

Application

• Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus rather than on the wind and circumstances around you. Continually speak God’s Word to your mind and heart.
• Exercise faith in God’s love, presence, and character. Believe that He is with you, goes before you, and is intimately involved in your life.

Prayer

Father, I come to Your throne to receive grace and mercy in my time of need. I believe Your Word, and I ask You to impart courage and confidence to me. Help me keep my eyes on Jesus and follow Him each step of the way. Thank You for always being with me and helping me overcome my fear. I know that You are bigger than any fear I face, and through Jesus I know I shall prevail. In Messiah Jesus’ name, amen.