What Are You Afraid Of?

At last, communities throughout the United States are gradually beginning to emerge from COVID19 hibernation. Even so, a host of lingering fears remain. Many people – even Christians – will continue to worry that they might still contract the virus. Then among those who’ve been through that ordeal already, some will worry about catching it again. On top of this, we may also be a little nervous about what’s going on with the social instability we’re facing in various communities throughout the nation.

Though we need to use our heads, we need to use our hearts as well. What I mean to say is that there is a time and place to be cautious and careful. Yet we also have to acknowledge that no matter how cautious and careful we may be, threats to our health and safety will always remain. So, at some point or another, we need to step out of our self-protective zones and take some risks again – risks that are inspired and motivated by a proper, biblical view of God’s love for us as his children.

For centuries and millennia, Christians have learned to choose love over fear, making difficult choices to obey, serve, and worship God, even at the risk of their lives. How can we enjoy the same confidence today as we face the challenges of our times? As John told believers he had pastored in the first century, “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 4:18). Are we equal to the task and ready to move forward with our lives, embracing love over fear? If not, then what are you afraid of?