WE ARE AT WAR

Life is rarely as simple as two options. Black and white are two poles between which are many shades of gray and a spectrum of color. But when it comes to war and relationships, you need to pick a side.

“There is no fear in love. Perfect love drives out fear.”

1 John 4:17

“The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life to the full.” – Jesus

John 10:10

There is a spiritual war going on around you and everyone you love. You and your relationships are the battleground. One side wants abundant life and love for you and for everyone on our planet. The other side wants only to steal, kill and destroy. If you don’t recognize this battle, you are an easy target for this terrorist Jesus called the thief. When your life and relationships are caught in the crossfire, you will live in fear and unwittingly join his side in spreading it.

Pick a side

The good news is that love wins. Jesus already has overcome in his death and resurrection. He will return to finish the job. The war has been decided, but the spiritual terrorist still knows that fear steals, kills and destroys relationships. He can’t win, but he can try to inflict as much damage as possible on his way to eternal damnation. The only way to fight the terrorizing effects of fear is with love: Courageous love that moves toward the other in spite of the fear.

The abundant life Jesus came to give us is a life of love. It is not something you need to pray for or wait for. It is something you choose. When you choose to overcome your own fear by loving others in a way that removes their fear, you are fighting on the winning team. You are advancing the kingdom of abundant life and love and driving out the kingdom of darkness and fear. You’re already in the middle of a war. You might as well choose to align with the winner.