Love verses Fear
There was so much that I desired to do in life. It would be decades before I understood that fear stopped me from getting degrees in psychology, English-literature and journalism. My high school curriculum was preparation for college. I loved going to school and learning was my life. When my dad, who I viewed as God, would not sign my college application or write the check to go with it, my dreams came crashing down around me. Depression and bitter disappointment bombarded my mind and emotions. The fear of never being good enough was my reality and a root of bitterness became my stronghold. But God! The Holy Spirit uses what is in our hands to reveal truth that makes us free. Years later I was reading about a young woman whose desires were the same as mine, but her dad’s refusal to finance her education did not stop her. That day I understood…it wasn’t my dad who had stopped me, but my own fears. “There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear expects punishment. The person who is afraid has not been made perfect in love. We love because God first loved us.” (1 John 4:18-19 CEB) I chose to forgive my Dad, and asked the Holy Spirit to help me became all that God desired me to be…His very own child. This one thing I know: if God loves me, He can love anyone! You are loved!
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I will praise You throughout eternity for loving me unconditionally. You are Love and You loved me even when I was Your enemy. I didn’t choose You, but You chose me. Forgive me for judging my dad and cleanse me from all unrighteousness. I submit to Your love and Your plan, believing that in my weaknesses Your Love is manifested in Strength. When I am weak, then I am strong. I am humbled and grateful that You sent Your Holy Spirit to be my Helper and my Teacher…He has poured Your Love in my heart…Your Love turns fear out of doors and I receive the Spirit of power, and Love, and a Sound Mind, in the name of Jesus, my Lord!
Scripture References: Romans 5:8; John 15:16; 1 John 1:9; Romans 5:1-5; 1 John 4:18; 2 Timothy 1:7