“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.” — 1 John 3:18
Fear is a powerful emotion. We can grow fearful of failure, rejection, misfortune, and even things we imagine, like a deer with swords for legs. From a young age, we are often motivated by fear. Ultimately, a looming punishment scared us into obedience, whether it was a time-out, loss of phone privileges, or just plain consequences.
We know what it’s like to let fear in the driver’s seat of our lives. This is no way to live. As children, we often cling to weird things when facing fear. Hiding under the covers with a stuffed bear doesn’t make you any safer. Holding onto a security blanket doesn’t provide you any protection. A nightlight isn’t a monster repellent. All of those comforts are counterfeits. John gives us the comforting antidote to a life full of fear: the love of Jesus “casts it out.”
This is not our love for God; rather, it’s His love for us. This does’t mean you’ll never face stress or worry. Jesus doesn’t necessarily prevent calamity, but He does provide security. In Jesus, there is protection, perseverance, and peace.