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. - 1 John 4:18

Dear Jesus,

What a cleansing and empowering verse!   If the truth were to be told, fear dominates our lives in too many ways to count, especially in relationships.  We are afraid of rejection so we reject first.  We are afraid of being exploited so we push people away.  We are afraid of shame or gossip or judgement so we slink and hide.  We are afraid to hurt so we isolate ourselves.  We are afraid of an argument so we refuse to confront.  Fear, fear at every turn.  But O God, once your love overwhelms our soul and makes us realize that we can never lose it, then we become the love we have received.  We aren't as addicted to ourselves as we once were.  We orient ourselves around the needs of others.  We forget ourselves and lose ourselves in loving and speaking the truth in love to everyone we meet, those near and dear and those we just met.  Love is bold and gentle at the same time, powerful and yet protecting.  It leads us into a full and abundant life that fear once stole from us.  You Jesus, are love personified and your love has given me a new opportunity to love others.  Thank you for freeing my soul.  Now help me love those whom I have famously feared in the secret place in my heart where only you take notice.  

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

Set your heart on loving others and your anxiety level will drop dramatically.