By: Pastor Dalton Stoltz
When we hear the question, “What is love?” our minds often go to romantic feelings, friendships, or family bonds. But the Bible reveals a love that goes beyond human connection—a perfect, selfless love rooted in God Himself. In 1 John 4, we read, “As we live in God, our love grows more perfect.” This passage teaches us that true love comes from God and is designed to transform us, filling our lives with peace and casting out all fear.
True love, according to God, isn’t conditional or limited by who we are, our achievements, or our past. It’s a love that reaches into the core of our being and redefines us. By growing in this love, we find ourselves more patient, less fearful, and able to walk confidently even when life feels uncertain.
Experiencing a Love that Drives Out Fear
One of the most profound aspects of God’s love is how it frees us from fear. Fear and love cannot coexist in the same heart. The apostle John reminds us that fear involves judgment and punishment, while God’s love brings us peace and assurance. When Adam and Eve sinned, they hid in fear, feeling separated from God. But through Jesus, God invites us back, offering us the chance to live in freedom rather than fear. If you’re facing fears or anxieties, remember that God’s love is a safe place where we can find rest and confidence. Perfect love casts out fear, allowing us to live boldly, knowing that we are held by His grace.
Walking in Love Through Action
True love isn’t just a feeling—it requires action. Jesus didn’t just talk about love; He showed it by serving, forgiving, and ultimately sacrificing Himself for us. As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect His love through practical acts of kindness and compassion. This could be as simple as offering a listening ear, sharing a meal with someone in need, or forgiving those who may have wronged us. Loving others isn’t always easy, and some people may be especially difficult to love. But when we rely on God’s strength, we can show His love even in challenging relationships. By choosing to act in love, we demonstrate the transformative power of God in our lives.
Living in Victory through Faith
Faith in Jesus doesn’t just provide hope for the future; it transforms how we live today. God’s love empowers us to live victoriously. When we place our faith in Him, we find ourselves able to rise above the struggles of life, walking in peace and joy. Victory doesn’t mean we won’t face challenges, but it does mean we have a steady source of strength to carry us through them. Just as an orange floats in water when it’s unpeeled, we can remain steady, buoyed by our faith, even when life’s waves feel overwhelming. Our confidence and victory come not from our circumstances but from our relationship with Christ.
Love Mandates Forgiveness
One of the most challenging yet freeing aspects of love is forgiveness. God’s love mandates that we forgive others as He has forgiven us. Holding onto bitterness and resentment only weighs us down. By letting go of grudges and choosing to forgive, we experience true freedom and allow God’s love to flow through us. As Jesus taught, if we seek forgiveness from God, we must also be willing to forgive others. Choosing forgiveness over anger releases us from a heavy burden and allows us to walk in the joy and peace that come from God’s love.
Are you ready to experience this life-changing love in a deeper way? At Liberty Live Church, we’d love to come alongside you as you discover the fullness of God’s love. Whether you’re new to faith or looking for a community to call home, we invite you to plan a visit or fill out our connect card. Let’s walk together, embracing the love that transforms, heals, and frees us from all fear.