1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love but perfect love casts out fear, because fear has punishment, but the one who fears has not be perfected in love.
φόβος οὐκ ἔστιν ἐν τῇ ἀγάπῃ ἀλλʼ ἡ τελεία ἀγάπη ἔξω βάλλει τὸν φόβον, ὅτι ὁ φόβος κόλασιν ἔχει, ὁ δὲ φοβούμενος οὐ τετελείωται ἐν τῇ ἀγάπῃ.
Fear drives a lot of what we do in life. We may not label it “fear.” Using this word is too strong for some people. But if we pause and think deeply, fear is the motive for a lot of what we do. Love is also a strong motive for much of what we do. We might label this “desire” or even “hope.” We can define this love in human terms, but it will deteriorate back to fear. The type of love John is writing about in this verse is resourced by God’s love. It is the same type of love. This love is our response to God’s love shown in faith and obedience.
When we become channels of God’s love, we will experience inner healing of our hearts. Another way to say this is that we experience forgiveness and cleansing which will affect our attitude and actions. The fear is replaced with love. Love pushes out the fear. In athletic terms, instead of being defensive to protect ourselves (from disease, poverty, hunger, broken relationships, and the many other things that cause fear), we are offensive and positive, moving outward towards the goal of Christlikeness propelled by love. Love becomes our motive and resource for holy living. We can stand before God with openness and humility.
For older posts, click here.