Our scripture this morning is 1 John 4:16-19.
We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we will not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face him with confidence because we live like Jesus here in this world. Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love. We love each other because he loved us first.
John speaks to us of God’s unfailing love and how that love is shown by our very existence. We were created by His love to live in His love and share His love with the world. We must choose to accept His love and fulfill the purpose He has for each of us.
We demonstrate our faith by loving others, admitting sin and letting God transform our lives. We know that He is waiting for us to let go of our selfish desire to be in control and allow Him to guide us always. Through this loving connection we are made new, strengthened and equipped to bring the Good News everywhere.
Because God first loved us, our wills and affections are transformed so that love replaces our selfishness. We stop thinking so much about ourselves and more about the needs of others and using the gifts God has given us. John writes “as we live in God, our love grows more perfect.” Each new day requires our recommitment to Him and the love He calls us to share.
Gracious God, You formed us in Your image and placed Your love in our hearts and minds. Help us to see the plan You have for us and bring Your love to a hurting world. Amen.
