Past and Present

Re: Verse reading–Genesis 1:26-31; Romans 5:1-11 (day five)

Romans 5:8  “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us”

Ever notice the 2 verb tenses in this verse?  Past (Christ died) and Present (God demonstrates).  Jesus’ death on the cross was a “once and for all” moment, yet God still uses it in the present as a reminder of His never-ending love.  We remember Christ’s death and are immediately filled with a flood of emotions (thankfulness, joy, sorrow).  It is the work of the Holy Spirit that constantly/presently points us to the death of Christ to prove and pour out the Love of God.  God’s past love (Christ’s death) can be understood as a present reality.  As believers we have the privilege each day to remember back and rejoice now in God’s Love.  When we do this, the result is a deep and daily Hope of the Glory of God.

Love and Fear

Re: Verse reading–Proverbs 17:17; 1 John 4:7-21 (day five)
It’s been said that the opposite of love is not hate, it is indifference or apathy.  This caused me to think about love and fear.  What is the relationship between the two?  Opposites?  Antagonists?  Competitors?  Seems the scripture describes their relationship as enemies.  The bible speaks of a great conflict between the two.  1 John 4:18 “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out (drives out) fear, “.  So, maybe they are mutually exclusive (cannot exist together).  God’s Love will lead to healthy trust.  Fear will demand we have control.  Love will cause the human heart to look upward with hope.  Fear causes us to look inward with despair. Love brings freedom and optimism.  Fear leads to captivity and cynicism.  The battle between these two is waged day to day, moment by moment.