Wednesday Daily Devotional
September 2023
Ted Atkins
Ted Atkins, a pastor and Christian writer, shares his faith journey with authenticity. Known for his uplifting words, he helps others find strength and connection in God's love amidst life's trials.
“If we really love God, we will not be afraid of him. We cannot love him completely and also be afraid. We would only be afraid of God if we thought that he would punish us. So, if someone is afraid that God will punish them, it shows that they do not completely know God’s love.” 1 John 4:18 EASY.
Embracing God’s Love Over Fear
In today’s Wednesday Daily Devotional, we delve into the profound message of perfect love and the absence of fear in our relationship with God. Explore how understanding God’s true nature leads us to a deeper connection and a life free from unwarranted fear. Join us on this spiritual journey.
1 John 4:18 gives us a defined explanation of the kind of fear that is not associated with loving God. As the scripture says, “If we really love God, we will not be afraid of him…” Imagine a child who knows their parent’s love is unconditional. They don’t fear punishment but trust in their parent’s love.
So, if someone is afraid that God will punish them, it shows that they do not completely know God’s love. God is not a wicked, or some unapproachable superior being seeking to mortify us once we sin. In Exodus 34:6-7, He described Himself as a God of compassion, grace, patience, loyal love, and faithfulness.
In the New Testament, he proved his unending love for us by sacrificing His only son, Jesus, on the cross. In Romans and Psalms, Paul and David, respectively, expressed God’s love as much as their words could express their understanding of His love. Both men committed atrocities that could validate their deaths, yet God’s love found them.
In essence, this scripture teaches us that perfect love for God and fear do not coexist. But how do we apply this truth to our lives?
First of all, it’s necessary to recognize that fear often stems from a misconception of God’s character. We may have a wrong view of Him as an angry, vengeful being waiting to punish our mistakes. This is not true. God is a compassionate Father who longs for a deep, personal relationship with us.
Secondly, to experience the love that does not exist with fear, we must intentionally seek to know God better. Spend time in His Word, reading and meditating on the scriptures that talk about His love and express His true nature.
Daily Devotional for Today
Dear Heavenly Father, I humbly admit that my love for You has not always been pure and fearless. Please guide me to love You without reservation or fear, basking in the depth of Your unwavering love for me. May my heart overflow with the love that only You can provide, and may I share this love with others, reflecting Your light in the world.
Amen.
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