100 Days
Can you believe that this week it’s 100 days since lockdown was introduced here in the UK? Do you remember where you were on Monday 23 March when Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in a televised address “From this evening I must give the British people a very simple instruction - you must stay at home.”
Life changed dramatically for everyone as the nation closed its doors. There was a lot of uncertainty, fear and anxiety as people were concerned about their loved ones, their jobs and if they would run out of toilet paper!
As we entered those very unsettling times many looked to God for guidance and comfort. The Bible is rich in speaking of God’s loving kindness, and addresses fear...
“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.”
God is love, and so knowing God personally really helps dealing with fear. However, this verse speaks of perfect love. To understand what the fullness of this love is we have to read other parts of the Bible.
God demonstrated his love by doing something about it. He sent His Son Jesus, and Jesus revealed God’s character and nature in what He said and did. So perfect love is complete when we do things for others in the same way Jesus did. It’s that kind of love that drives out fear.
As we mark 100 days since lockdown the future is still uncertain and fear is still real for many. The Bible is clear, that God’s perfect love will drive out fear, and that is still true today!
If you are fearful, let me encourage you to do two things. Firstly, turn to God and receive His glorious unconditional love. And secondly, do something about it. Demonstrate love in practical and tangible ways for other people. This dynamic duo of perfect love will drive out fear!
Also, why not check out our live stream service every Sunday at 10:30am, simply go to www.hopebasingstoke.org/livestream
Stay safe
God bless
Gary Bastin - Hope Community Church leader