[22nd February 2018]
Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world (1 John 4:17).
There’re two key words I’ll like you to notice in our opening verse. The first is “perfect” which means “made complete,” while the second is “judgment.” Judgment is from the Greek word, “krisis,” the derivative of the English word, “crisis.” It depicts a time of intense difficulty or danger. So, whether you have a crisis in the Church or on your job, at home or in the country where you live, God wants you to have boldness or confident assurance in the day of crisis.
Mark 4 gives credence to this. It tells the story of how the disciples were rattled amidst a raging tempest. Distraught with fear, they cried out to Jesus, “…Master, carest thou not that we perish?” (Mark 4:38). At that hour of crisis—that period of turbulence—Jesus was unflustered. With poise, boldness and an undeniable confidence, He hushed the tempestuous weather to sleep. Mark 4:39 says, “…he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.”
He then chided His disciples saying, “Where is your faith?” Faith in what? In the Father’s love! This was the confidence Jesus had. John 15:9 (NLT) says, “I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love.” When you function in the Father’s love, you become unafraid of anything because you know the Father is with you and in you. That fellowship inspires confidence. You’re conscious that you dwell in His love. 1 John 4:18 says, “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear….”*_
It makes no difference what you face in life, refuse to be anxious; calm the storm. Give the Word of faith. Heal the sick, restore sight to the blind, unstop deaf ears, and restore maimed limbs! In spite of the turbulence, declare peace, tranquility, and calmness over situations and circumstances. Be bold and confident in the day of crisis because you have the Father’s love; meaning you’ll always win.
PRAYER
Dear Father, I thank you for the confidence I have in your Word and in your love for me. In the hour of crisis, I give no room to doubt and strengthened, unbelief; having I’m the confident assurance that you’re always in, and with me. I live in perpetual victory, above the adversary and all adversities, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
FURTHER STUDY:Proverbs 24:10 1 John 5:4, Romans 8:31-37, Leviticus 22-23
2-Year Bible Reading Plan:Acts 20:25-38,
Psalm 35-36