"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love.  We love, because He first loved us."  1 John 4:18-19 NASB

John was overwhelmed with the reality of God's love.  Over and over again in his first letter, he wrote about His love, using the word "love" 33 times.  John knew that accepting God's love brings life into perspective.

There are so many other things that can motivate us - pleasures, honors, rewards, and riches.  We can place our faith in people or possessions, busineses or governments.  But focusing on these things in the world can fill us with fear, anxiety, doubt, worry, and frustration.  Everything changes when we're motivated by God's love, first and foremost.

This love is not just a mushy emotion, but a force of real power.  it casts out fear and overcomes worry, doubt, and anxiety.  in fact, accepting God's love can transform every aspect of our lives.

When asked to name the greatest commandment, Jesus said, "You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind" (Matthew 22:37).  So the greatest thing we can do is love God with everything that is in us.

As we allow His love to fill our lives, we begin to realize the amazing depth of His love for us.  We begin to trust Him, rely upon His Word, and grasp how ready He is to bless us if we'll love Him with all our heart, soul, and mind.

right now, ask God to flood you with His love.  As Paul wrote, seek to be "rooted and grounded in love" and to "comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge" (Ephesians 3:17-19).  Then, seek to share that love with others - blessing them as He has blessed you (Genesis 12:2).

Prayer:  Father, thank You for loving me first, before I ever even knew You.  i love You so much, Lord, and I'm grateful for all You've done for me.  Thank You!  In Jesus' name, Amen.

From:  Inspiration