F N F (Fear Not Friday)

On the discussion of fear — have you ever heard that perfect love drives out fear?

In my early 20s, I began to explore the bible. I hated religion and I hated the god that my father taught me. But, I found that I needed something outside of myself. I decided I would throw away everything my father taught me and pursue God on my own.

When I started, I deeply feared Father God. But Jesus! I could look for him.

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.

I John 4:18

This verse meant so much to me. I’ve explored its meaning for years. I used to have gripping fear. Fear of the unknown. Fear of the known. Fear of — well, fear of everything.

Punishment! Fear has to do with punishment. Don’t you think a child of three considers a rape by their father some kind of punishment? Of course they do! I know — I was that child. I was punished for absolutely no reason.

Fear! That created a fear in me that overshadowed everything in life and I do mean everything.

God has taught me that even when I am “bad,” he doesn’t punish me. Time and time again I have waited for his punishment and it just doesn’t come. Instead, blessing upon blessing has come into my life.

Jesus has taught me not to fear.

Originally published at http://prisonerbynocrimeofmyown.com on January 6, 2023.