Love Conquers Fear

Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

1 John 4:11

Do you feel fear when it comes to connecting with God’s people? Maybe it’s the feeling of vulnerability, or maybe you’ve been hurt by other Christians. Whatever it is, don’t let fear keep you from one of the biggest blessings of our faith: the love of a Christian church family.

Whether your fear is subdued or strong, rational or irrational, fear freezes you—in whatever area it consumes. For example, you won’t walk up a steep hill to see a beautiful sunset because of your fear of heights. You can’t bring yourself to go to the party because of your fear of crowds. You don’t join that Bible study because you fear having to read aloud.

When you let fear run your life, you close yourself off from anything that might hurt you or make you uncomfortable, including opportunities to know God’s love through the love of His people. “Perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18). And one place we can experience godly love is in community with other believers. So if you’re feeling fear of connecting, take it as a cue to say no to letting life pass you by, and yes to love. Risk loving in community again.

God, I choose to receive all of Your love, because perfect love casts out all fear. I want to engage fully in the life You’ve planned for me!