11.01.2011

Perfect love*

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, NKJ

"Oftentimes, people stay right where they are in life for one reason—fear. Fear can be paralyzing. It tries to keep us from God's best. It prevents us from growing and stretching the way God intends. Like a disease, fear in one area can spread and affect every other area of life.

The good news is that we don't have to live in fear. We don't have to let it weigh us down or hold us back. As believers in Jesus, we have victory over fear! Scripture tells us that fear isn't from God. In fact, He makes it very clear in 2 Timothy that He has not given us a spirit of fear, but He has given us a spirit of power, love and a sound mind. The spirit of fear is what the enemy uses to distort reality and try to keep us from moving forward. That's why we have to pull back the curtain of fear and see it for what it really is—a lie from the enemy designed to hold us back!

You may have heard it said that fear is an acronym for False Evidence Appearing Real. If we can recognize the root of fear as a lie, then we can reject it and embrace the truth of God's Word which sets us free from fear. (John 8:32)

For example, if you are trying to avoid something new because of a fear of failure, reject that lie and embrace the truth that says, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." (Philippians 4:13) If fear of the future keeps you anxious and worried, know that it's a lie. Reject the lie and embrace His truth which says, "God has a good plan for my future, a plan to prosper me and give me hope." (Jeremiah 29:11) Find what God says about your situation in the Word of God and let it sink down deeply into your heart. As you meditate on God's truth, it will set you free and empower you to move forward past fear.

Remember, ultimately it is God's perfect love that drives fear out of our lives. When you hold on to the truth of God's love for you, then nothing can hold you back. Today let His love empower you. Let His love give you confidence. Find safety, peace and joy in His love because when you do, you close the door on fear!"


This proves once again that God will always provide the guidance you need if you are willing to listen.
*Thankful for Today's Word for providing such wonderful messages and insight. 

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