1 John 4

1 John 4 – “v16 God is Love. All who live in love, live in God.” “v18 His perfect love casts out fear.” “v21 Those who love God must love their brothers and sisters in Christ.”

I read this and so many come to mind, not fitting this description. I wonder how and why. The lack of love could be the reason why so many simply won't believe. Then I'm reminded of two things: I am to read the Word and have the Lord search MY heart and as we live in God our love GROWS more perfect (see verse 17.)

God, where does Your love in MY life need to be more perfected? Where does Your love in MY actions need to mature? Where does Your love for my Christian brothers and sisters need to grow? Where am I not willing to allow love to take me, in the areas of feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, welcoming the stranger, clothing the vulnerable, looking after the ill and visiting the imprisoned? Where, God, am I afraid and need to FULLY EXPERIENCE YOUR PERFECT LOVE (see verse 18)?

Holy Spirit, the PROOF God lives in us and us in Him (see verse 13), illuminate those areas that appear dim and cause God's perfect love to be brought to full expression in our lives (see verse 12).