Our scripture for the Daily Devotional today is taken from 1 John 4: 18-21. In a world where the saying eye for an eye reigns, people tend to love those that love them. They also love those that offer a benefit in some way. For most people on this earth, unless you fall within these 2 categories, they will discard you without any hesitation.
“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
19 We love because he first loved us. 20 Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. 21 And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.”
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If love drives out fear, I would say that our world needs a whole lot more love about now. We are living in a time of such a heightened fear. Just the other day, a shopping mall down the road was closed due to balloons exploding. With the fear that people are living with, they automatically assumed that the sounds were gunshots. Pandemonium broke out, people running everywhere and hiding for hours.
Love offers security. In the same way that a child can confidently take on life, due to the love of a parent. Our love for those around us can offer serenity and peace, security and confidence. Our love for them can drive out their fears. If you love those around you, they do not need to fear the worst from you, as you will look to do all things for their benefit.
God’s love that has been poured out for us first, is the reason that we can even have love to give. Let’s give out God’s love to all around us, not just those that offer a reciprocal love or benefit. Let us all make a decision to love each and every person we meet today!
Let’s Pray
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you that You first loved us. You took the action and loved us first. Help me to give love to each person today. Use my sacrifice and Your love to drive out the fears of each one.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen