How We Know

Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. We love Him because He first loved us. (1 John 4:17-19)

 

John the Beloved teaches us that God is love. When we love as He loves, we are manifesting the true and living God in the world. God’s love is undeniable and unmistakable, as it is of a higher order, and no other love compares to it. God’s love is without manipulation or agenda, it gives its all and expects nothing in return — it is not exhausted nor frustrated, because God is neither exhausted nor frustrated.

 

Therefore, when we abide in Him and He abides in us, we enjoy the perfect union that casts out the fear and uncertainty that hinder every other relationship. We are fearless lovers of God and men, because of the love God pours in our hearts. We have nothing to fear, because Christ has defeated Satan and sin, and we are in Him.

 

. . . because as He is, so are we in this world. (1 John 4:17) 

What a privilege it is to be representatives of Christ in a desperate and needy world! When we identify with the Lord, we are changed from within, and our only purpose is to seek the Lord’s will. We are confident that He who has begun an excellent work in us will see that work completed, and we are free from fear because we are one with Jesus our Lord.

 

This is how we know we are the children of God! 

 

Let's Pray - Father, thank You for the blessed assurance that I am Your child. You are perfecting me in Your love, and I have great faith and confidence in Your power to finish the work You started. Amen.