God is Love
(1John 4:7~21)

This world is governed by strong people. People need to have certain strength to live whether that strength is physical, economical, military, moral or educational. However, the believers live not by those types of strength, but by strength given by God. It is an amazing blessing beyond man’s imagination that we believed in Jesus and became the children of God. Even though Jesus died on the cross with a weak human body, he conquered that weakness and was resurrected. Jesus who now has all authority in heaven and on earth is embracing us. We must rely on the love of God and boldly move forward.

1. Our fundamental relationship with God
1) God created us and wants to use us for His good purposes. Therefore, we must come to God with faith and obedience. (Eph. 2:10)
2) God speaks to us through dreams, visions, and the Holy Spirit. (Acts 16:9~10)

2. Do not be afraid
1) God has redeemed us through Jesus’ death. (Eph. 1:7)
2) God said, “I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” (Isa. 43:1)

3. I will be with you
1) God has promised that He will be with us in every situation. (Deut. 32:10)
2) Because God is with us, when we pass through the waters, they will not sweep over us. When we walk through the fire, the flames will not set us ablaze. (Isa. 43:2)

4. God’s evaluation
1) We are precious and honored in God’s sight. God loves us. (Isa. 43:4)
2) We who are loved by God do not need to fear at all. (Isa. 41:10)

Conclusion
The biggest enemy that hinders life is fear. Fear takes away God’s grace. It makes us discouraged, fall in despair, and give up life. However, if we realize and rely on the love of God, His love will allow us to live with peaceful hearts by driving out every fear and giving us firm faith. Therefore, when crossing the river of sufferings, believe in and rely on God. Then, God will carry us and cross that river. In the Bible, God promised, “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” (Isa. 46:4)