1 John 4:18 NIV There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
Other than the basic fears that are, in my opinion, perfectly reasonable; you know the things: heights, spiders-the large ones where you can see their bobbly-knobbly knees; the concept of fear is one that Christians reject and maybe moreso this close to Easter…
We have beautiful verses full of reassurance that where God is, his very presence eliminates fear in all its forms. We are known as brave and bold in faith. Because God is with us and he is the biggest dad of all dads – so no one is going to mess with us and win out…
I looked at Peter’s fall this Easter. Fear griping his guts, his will turning to water as fear took hold of him and he could no longer hold onto his resolve to stick close to Jesus. I recognise myself here more than I care to admit. He knew Jesus better than anyone and he still experienced the horror of overwhelming fear that stole his heart and caused his collapse. Yes, he feared punishment. Yes, he feared not having an answer and yes, confusion overwhelmed him.
How I relate to these feelings.
A Foothold for Fear
Fear has struck so hard in my churches. Two years of pandemic restrictions here in the U.K. have led to the people keeping away. We have been wearing masks to worship which has been unpleasant. But above all, looking like pirates notwithstanding- it has been fear that has kept us separate. And when we practise separation, we become so good at it that the separation between us and God becomes enlarged.
The we begin to be ruled by fear.
And it is because of fear that fear has become a stronghold.
Peter’s fears of separation are sorted out in John 21 when Jesus, perfect and full of love declares Peter’s reinstatement. He demands the truth of Peter’s heart and with each confession of love, Peter is given a commission. He is worthy. He’s not being punished. He has a place close to Jesus.
So when the weight of criticism presses in, triggering all manner of things from imposter syndrome to fear of punishment, remember this: draw near enough to God to hear him. Your first enemy is separation. And now that you are close enough to listen to the still, small voice, tell the truth of your heart.
Perfect love drives out fear. We just need to be close enough to hear it.
I will never be brave enough to see a rat in the London Underground without recoiling, but I’m secure enough in my place in Jesus’ heart to follow him, boldly and with a soupçon of courage…
We are emerging again as church here in the UK, and returning to a place of faith. We need that love of God that is bigger than the fears that would steal our hearts.
Meet Catherine…
Catherine Hutton is a Jesus Follower, wife to Gavin and mum to Joel and Aidan. Ordained in the Methodist Church in Great Britain; currently leading Epsom and Cheam Methodist Churches. Catherine writes discipleship style Bible Studies, and loves to preach, evangelise and innovate for local mission. She can be found exploring tea shops, walking the chihuahua and finding bargains in the charity shops, when not reading.
Visit Catherine’s website…
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When we practice separation, we become good at it. I might add that we become comfortable with it as well. Such good words this morning! Praying for churches everywhere to draw near to God and let Him have the final word over our fears.