Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like 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. —1 John 4:16-18

 

Neither good experiences from our fathers nor even our zeal for God can produce abounding love for Jesus in us. I was an angry, frustrated Christian who constantly carried a heavy burden of guilt and failure for not measuring up. Only when I began to see the true knowledge of how God feels about me did the spiritual strongholds in my mind and heart begin to break down. The person who is afraid of God, who fears that He will judge all their failings, will live in torment. When I recognized that God's heart is filled with tenderness for me—even in my weakness—then it made me bold in my love for God.

 

{ PRAYER STARTER }

Father, like Mike Bickle, I remember the spiritual issues that remained in my life even though I wanted to live a good Christian life. I thank You for the revelation of how much You loved me, because the knowledge of Your love for me is what allowed me to live in the peace and security of Your approval.

Torment is the opposite of boldness.