The most important agreement you will ever make is to stay loyal to your covenant with the Lord. Many times, the fear of the unknown or the fear of getting hurt again keeps us in bondage, preventing us from loving.
The scripture tells us: We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love his brother abides in death. (1John 3:14)
Love produces life, but if we don’t love, we remain in death. Isn’t that powerful? Many times, we just want to do more for God, but what God is looking for is for us to do everything with love in our hearts—for Him and for one another. What matters to God is the quality of what we give of ourselves.
Love is the precious metal that, when tested by time and fiery trials, endures. Love cannot be burned up. It will continue to speak and change lives because it is the seed of life.
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. 1 John 4:17-19
Fear, on the other hand, tries to justify why it can’t love. It cries out about injustice or hypocrisy, points fingers at others, and places blame. Perfect love changes us, placing us in a giving position with our arms wide open.
Love is generous. It is not motivated by selfish interests, nor does it seek personal gain. It has a big heart and doesn’t take things personally. Love knows that what it offers is good, so it doesn’t apologize for it or doubt its worth. It doesn’t let the enemy accuse or condemn it for not giving enough or doing it right. Love doesn’t expect perfection from others but desires to be perfected.
Love is a pursuer and is not afraid of rejection. It seeks to reach and uplift others. It looks for ways to encourage rather than focusing on lack. It expects nothing in return and doesn’t take things personally.
The Lord wants to free us from torment by teaching us to believe in His love. As we embrace His love, we become His agents in a world tormented by guilt, shame, fear, and selfishness.
We must face our fears. There is no other way to grow in love other than to confront the fears.