“We have come into an intimate experience with God’s love, and we trust in the love he has for us. God is love! Those who are living in love are living in God, and God lives through them. By living in God, love has been brought to its full expression in us so that we may fearlessly face the day of judgment, because all that Jesus now is, so are we in this world. Love never brings fear, for fear is always related to punishment. But love’s perfection drives the fear of punishment far from our hearts. Whoever walks constantly afraid of punishment has not reached love’s perfection. Our love for others is our grateful response to the love God first demonstrated to us.” 1 John 4:16-19 TPT
As we approach this season, while shopping for our loved ones, attempting to find the perfect gift soon brings forth challenges which can quickly try our patience. As believers, we are to be lovers, both for Christ, and for others. God’s love for us is perfect and is the source of all human love. Through our love for him, we are blessed with the ability to spread such love to others, holding it within our hearts as we enter into this season of giving.
In this passage God’s love is explained as an intimate experience, in that as we live in his love, we are brought to its full expression, so that our future can be filled with joy. His love replaces fear, leaving punishment as non-existent. As we focus on His immeasurable love for us, we are reminded of the challenges that can so often confront us, especially leading up to our celebrations for Christmas, always remembering, your availability is ours, all for the asking.
Heavenly Father, help us to remember all you gave, just because you loved us so, your only Son, and be ever so thankful.
In Christ Love
Margaret