Perfect Love, Total Trust

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. John 3:16-17 (NKJV)

When I was a young man, I heard a pastor say that if you wanted to do great things for God, you must suffer greatly for Him. In that one message, fear anchored itself in my heart. I began holding God at a distance. I started to shut Him out of certain areas of my life because I was afraid of what He might do if I gave Him free rein.

Yet John 3:16-17 couldn't be more clear—God isn't out to condemn you or make you suffer. He loves you! He doesn't need to use tragedy or hardship to teach you. He's always looking out for your good. And we know that when life is difficult, He can redeem our situation and bring something good out of it.

First John 4:18 (NKJV), says, “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear.” When you know how much God loves you, there's no room for fear. You can be secure and at peace.

If you ever doubt His love, take a look at Jesus. Why would He hang on a cross, take the punishment for your sin and willingly die for you? It's because He loves you.

You can freely say, “God, have Your way with me,” and believe beyond a shadow of a doubt that the only thing coming your way is good. You can trust Him completely because He loves you completely.