Have you ever been awakened during the night with a spirit of fear from the devil? Is this temptation to be afraid normal? The answer to that is NO! This kind of fear is tormenting and it does not come from our loving Abba Father. “…God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of POWER and of LOVE and of a SOUND MIND.” (2 Timothy 1:7) Notice, God gives us a spirit of love and, “There is NO FEAR IN LOVE…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 4:18-19) Why does this work? Because, “…love comes from God…GOD IS LOVE.” (1 John 4:7-8)
Jesus emphasized the critical importance of love… “LOVE the Lord your God with ALL your heart, soul and mind.’ This is the first and GREATEST commandment.” (Matthew 22:36-38). You see, GOD IS LOVE!!! That means that love is alive, love is powerful (it casts out fear), to love is an act of obedience to the greatest commandment. So, we may, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid…for the LORD your God…will NEVER leave you nor forsake you.” (Deut. 31:6)
Possess this promise God spoke, “…my word that goes out from my mouth…WILL NOT RETURN TO ME EMPTY, BUT WILL ACCOMPLISH WHAT I DESIRE AND ACHIEVE THE PURPOSE FOR WHICH I SENT IT…” (Isaiah 55:11)
-Bill Stockham