The Most Excellent Way
Drives out Fear – Part 3

Scripture Reading: 1 John 4:13-21

Key Verse: 1 John 4:18

 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.

Since this week has been all about the most excellent way of living life, I want to stay one more day on our scripture concerning fear.  How wonderful is it to be fully accepted by God without harsh judgment.  Don’t take that for granted—rejoice in it!  His love for you and me has driven out any need for fear on judgment day, but as we studied yesterday, it is extremely important to pass this on to the people around you.  The question is: What does this really look like?

I believe that we should see our first glimpses of it at home.  Our family should be the first ones to enjoy a fear free environment.  Harsh and negative judgments should be eliminated from our homes.  Obviously, parents need to correct and discipline poor behavior in their children.  This can and should be done without “out of control” anger and piercing judgment.  In fact, the most effective parenting is done with little negative emotion and lots of love and logic!  (There is a secular book out entitled, “Love and Logic” and is a good read for parents.)

My guess is, for most of us, our co-workers are next in line after family.  It is easy to have quick harsh judgments against the people we work with!  Let’s determine to be “slow to speak and quick to listen” (James 1:19).  Our co-workers need to see Jesus’ love shining brightly through us!

Father, I am determined to pass on your love to others today!  Grant me your wisdom and patience to give others what you have so generously given to me.  In Jesus’ name, amen.