.

TODAY’S WORD…

.

There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear;

for fear has to do with punishment,

and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love.

.

– 1 John 4:18

.

.

.

REFLECTION…and PRAYER…

.

This verse speaks about that kind of fear – servile fear – which is incompatible with love,

Servile fear is, seeing God only as one who punishes those who transgress His commandments.

.

Servile fear means that I see God as a vengeful master

and myself as a slave fearing punishment.

No more, no less.

.

Filial fear, on the other hand, is compatible with pure love.

It is what gives a true Christian that deep repulsion of sin.

.

Filial fear, is a tender fear.

It occurs in the heart of those who acknowledge God as their loving and doting Father

and who see themselves as His children.

.

Filial fear comes about when I do not want to hurt God;

when I do not want to do anything to cut myself off from His love

– from my Heavenly Father’s love.

.

All-forgiving, generous Father, send Your Spirit upon me

to fill me with a greater awareness of Your love,

and a resolve not to hurt You.

.

Lord, I love You

and I will never draw myself away from You and Your love.

.