Continuing the thought from yesterday… If it is the case that I do not have boldness in my speech based on the saving grace that has been provided me by the life, death, resurrection, and ascension of my Lord it may be that the source of my hope is misplaced.
Rather than having rejoicing hope in the completed work of the Savior in my life, it is in my position, etc. That being the case then my lack of boldness is based on fear of losing that in which I have placed my hope. If that hope is placed on anything other than Christ’s work, I will lose it. That is certain.
1 John 4:18 tells me that perfect love casts out fear. That would seem to suggest that if I lack boldness, then my love of Christ is less than perfect.
By the way I am writing this for myself. I desperately need this reminder.
1 John 4:18 tells me that perfect love casts out fear. That would seem to suggest that if I lack boldness, then my love of Christ is less than perfect.
By the way I am writing this for myself. I desperately need this reminder.
As I consider my own journey these days I realize I am experiencing anxiety (comforting euphemism for just plain fear) in different ways over a number of things present and future. Facing my fear alone is a whole different experience without my soul mate who was strong in faith, probably more than anyone else I know intimately.
ReplyDeleteSo I am learning more deeply the extent to which my "love" for Christ is at best, feeble. The question is, to me, "What does it mean to 'love Christ?'"
Certainly obedience is one dimension (Jn. 15:10). You seem to be suggesting that it is related more narrowly to understanding my identity in Christ, which I cannot disagree with.
Either way, the challenge is to get the concept from my head into my heart. That requires faith in God's promise in what He says about my condition and refusing to follow or be limited by my fears, a sometimes moment by moment and ongoing battle.
I'd love more reflection and discussion on this.