John said in verse 17 that we can approach God the Father with confidence just like Jesus could when He was on the earth. How is this even possible? God is God and we are not. God is holy and righteous and just. He is perfect and we are most definitely not perfect. So how can we, imperfect sinners, approach a holy God with such confidence? The answer is: love. John wrote:
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 4:18 (NIV)
We do not have to fear God because He is not out to punish us. He is out to love us. He punished Jesus on the cross when He poured out all of His wrath on His Son. He has no more wrath for you! All He has for you is forgiveness. You do not have to be terrified of God. He’s not out to get you! He’s only out to get you into Heaven! If you’re terrified of God, you need to experience His love for His love makes all of the difference.
The Lavished Pauper 
Recent Comments