1 John 4:18 (TPT) Love never brings fear, for fear is always related to punishment. But love’s perfection drives the fear of punishment far from our hearts. Whoever walks constantly afraid of punishment has not reached love’s perfection.
Beloved, I would much rather you be moved to surrender out of your love for Me than by fear. You are safe with Me, and I never ask you to do anything that will not be of benefit to you. Yes, sometimes what I ask of you may be hard, and yes, I may stretch you. But I am not here to force My will upon you or arrogantly flaunt My power—love never demands or seeks its own way. Instead, I am seeking your humble agreement, alignment, and trust in My perfect will.
When fear tempts you to question My will and question My motives, simply pause and remind yourself of who I am. Understand that I am your leader, your head, and sovereign over all things. Remember that you are the apple of My eye and that all I do is done out of My great love towards you. While I will not always provide an explanation for the direction I am leading you, know that you can trust Me to always have your best interests at heart.
Yet also be aware that your submission to Me in every matter is a powerful force. Through submission, you communicate that you understand who I am and do not doubt My character or intentions towards you. You communicate to Me that you believe I am faithful. You demonstrate humility and give Me honor through your willingness to seek My desires above your own. Ultimately, you are communicating that you trust Me, and to trust Me demonstrates that you love Me. This is the very foundation of faith.
In the midst of surrender, when you walk in this level of faith, fear, distrust, or any other device of the evil one will fail to find a place in your life. Peace like a river will overtake you as you remember that you rest in the palm of My hand. Each time that you give Me your “yes” it is a powerful weapon in the spiritual realm. By submitting to Me, you are choosing to rest in My love, and you are affirming My Kingdom rule and power in your life. Rejoice, beloved, knowing that surrender is sweet! For surrender is always an opportunity for love to have its way.
[Surrender Out of Love, Not Fear originally posted on Waiting in the Wings, reposted in its entirety with permission.]