Perfect Love

“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love” (1 John 4:18). There’s no fear whatsoever in perfect love. If your child has ever welcomed you by jumping on you with his dirty hands, you’ll understand what I mean. Your child’s action was based on his love for you and excitement to see you; he isn’t afraid of punishment for he expects you to respond with the same love and affection. That’s perfect love.

There are children who are afraid to get close to their dad or mum. Such children aren’t growing in love but in fear, because they’re more conscious of punishment than the parents’ love. But God’s love can’t be compared with our parents’ love, or the best expression of love we’ve had from anyone. God is more than a good daddy. “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us (made us alive) together with Christ…” (Ephesians 2:4-5). God is rich in mercy. Hallelujah! This scripture should make you shout! The Bible says that the Lord is good (Psalm 100:5); goodness is His nature. He always has good things for His kids. When you understand that the Father loves you, you won’t be afraid to come to Him. As far as God is concerned, you’re a joint heir with Christ, sharing the throne with Jesus.

You represent Him on earth as He represents you in Heaven. Your heavenly Father doesn’t see you the way you think you are, but according to His Word; He loves you the same way He loves Jesus. Therefore, if you sin, don’t let it weigh you down. Tell God about it and say you’re sorry and He’ll forgive you (1 John1:9). Once you ask for forgiveness, God no longer remembers it. It’s all part of the new covenant relationship that you have with Him through Christ Jesus.

F U RT H E R S T U DY : PSALM 86:5; EPHESIANS 3:16-19