| Yesterday Afternoon's Bible Study |
"What makes us afraid? Is it our lack of understanding or ability? Does the future make us afraid?
When we experience fear, it's like something has taken over our bodies. Our hearts start beating faster. A surge of adrenaline rushes through the bloodstream. Our senses are on high alert.
This is actually a natural human reaction known as the fight-or-flight response, and it can save our life if we're facing a real threat. But if this reaction happens too often, such as with prolonged stress, it can be very unhealthy.
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When we are perpetually fearful, we're focusing on the worst-case scenario, instead of turning to God and immersing ourselves in His love. God's love for us is so great, so immense, that it overcomes fear and casts it aside. That's what the Apostle John meant in this afternoon's verse when he said, "there is no fear in love" and "perfect love [casts] out fear." His reference to "perfect," of course, means God's love.
Perfect love only exists in the context of God and His gift to us. If our concept of love for others is based on how God loves us, we will finally see the world as God sees it--and we will never have reason to fear. Love will have conquered it.
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