Scripture: 1st John 4:18-21
There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love. We love be- cause he first loved us. Those who say, “I love God,” and hate their brothers or sisters, are liars; for those who do not love a brother or sister whom they have seen, cannot love God whom they have not seen. The commandment we have from him is this: those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also.
Thought for the Day: A psychotherapist named Nathaniel Branden has written often on the importance of self-esteem. He believes as many do that there is a direct correlation between an individual’s sense of self-worth and his/her ability to live and interact within society. Most people would not only agree, but sug- gest that such thinking is commonsense. What I found fascinating was his con- nection between self-esteem and generosity. He wrote, “There is overwhelming evidence that the higher the level of self-esteem, the more likely one will be to treat others with respect, kindness and generosity.” The sad part is that I find many religious people who are generous, but their benevolence comes from a low sense of personal worth that others have used to manipulate with fear. Their anxiety, perpetuated by a wrathful God, is the catalyst for their giving. People may speak of offering given with thankful hearts, but too often it is viewed as an offering to appease God, pacifying the divine anger.
God desires for every human being to have a strong sense of self-worth. Not ar- rogance, but a confidence based in love…the perfect love that casts out all fear. Generosity then comes from true gratitude, and the unconditional love of God allows us to let go more freely for the sake of God’s reign of love. Motive is a strange thing, though healthy motives are the product of healthy people who de- sire to help others experience the love of God that will help create others who are healthy. Funny how that works…
Prayer: Lord, continue to provide me with love that will produce a healthy me… that will lead to others knowing spiritual and emotional health. Amen.
