Perfect Love...

casts out fear. "In love there can be no fear, but fear is driven out by perfect love; because to fear is to expect punishment, and anyone who is afraid is still imperfect in love." 1 John 4:18

I have always been afraid. Even as a child I was afraid to go into the post office and check the mailbox. Why am I such a fear-filled person? My stomach hurts constantly with anxiety. People make me nervous. What will they say? What will they do? What is around the corner? Why is it that some people look with great anticipation as to what is around the corner, but I am more filled with trepidation? Am I like the scripture, expecting punishment?

As I sit here each morning and think about the beauty of Christ, I realize how difficult it is to take it with me all through the day. Here in the quiet I am safe and secure and able to process the wonder of my relationship with Jesus. But the moment daily life ensues...the assurance of Jesus' presence seems to get bumped to the back of the bus. How can I hold onto this pearl of great price all through the day? Practicing the presence of Christ is a 24-7 endeavor. I know the Holy Spirit lives within me and so I must learn to walk in the awareness of His presence - and what is that presence but Perfect Love? And what does Perfect Love do? It casts out fear.

So I come full circle. The antidote to fear is the perfect love of God as shown through Jesus. This I know, but living it out is my daily challenge. From my head to my heart to my body, the love of God must reign. Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to Him belong, they are weak but He is strong. Yes! Jesus loves me. Yes! Jesus loves me! Yes! Jesus loves me! The bible tells me so. Let this be my lifesong.