perfect love casts out fear

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind." -2 Timothy 1:7

Why does love follow power in this verse? Because love balances power. The love of God keeps power in its right place. This kind of love is agape love = self-sacrificial. The power that God gives you is not to benefit you, it's often to bring Him glory and it's usually at your own expense (dying to self).

Jesus is the epitome and perfect example of power harnessed by love and sacrifice. First, in the way He died on the cross for us. Another example is in the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus says no to His flesh and yes to the Spirit. He was powerful, but He prayed for God's will, not His own will. He said, "Father, if it's your will, take this cup of suffering away from me. However, not my will but your will must be done" (Luke 22:42). This is dying to self, and acting out of love instead of fear because we trust in God's plan.

Love is an action. In this context, it means we choose to act out of love instead of fear as we live like Jesus here in this world. We may not be perfect beings, but if we live surrendered to the Spirit, our love grows more perfect (1 John 4:15-19).

Reflection/discussion questions:

• Do I walk in confidence because I believe God loves me? Or do I fall to the confusion and fear produced by this world?

• Who do I need to show more love and compassion to? Someone else in my life, or myself?

This week’s challenge:

• Commit to a daily “heart check” this week. Pray David’s prayer (Psalm 51:10) and regularly ask God to purify your heart.