Momentum For Monday, December 30th 2024

“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.” (1 John 4:18)

Some people make resolutions, and some people are just setting goals as the new year approaches. However, the thing about New Year's is that we tend to try and go into the new year with our old self. Same attitude. Same habits. Same resources. If we want different results, then we need different actions. If we want different actions, we may need different resources.

The resources I'm referring to is not a fitness trainer or financial planner that could assist in reaching those goals. Yes, those may be things you may need, but I'm talking about another resource. Those help physically reach the goal, but let's dig a little deeper.

It is alarming the amount of people who claim that they are believers or have a relationship with God, yet they are driven and overwhelmed by fear and anxiety. I don't take myself out of the equation when it comes to these matters either. I have to remind myself constantly to trust God in all circumstances, even when my emotions feel nothing but confident trust. And trust me, I have much to work on.

However, there should be an alarm in us when there are irrational behaviors occurring within. Things like overcompensating, constant worry, or out of control emotions are just a few red flags. In my opinion, the more a believer struggles with fear and anxiety, the greater the need for freedom.

The resource that drives our goals, decisions, and resolutions should be rooted in God. And being that God is love, those same resolutions/decisions/goals should be motivated by love also. To be motivated by fear, panic, or worry takes its toll in the long run.

Because the love of God, perfect love, drives out fear. The opposite rings true too, though. Fear drives out love. And yes, there is a healthy fear, but that fear speaks to reverence and respect towards God. Unhealthy fear has nothing to do with respect and reverence. It's usually self-centered and mistrusting.

So, set the goal. Go after the resolution. But let's address the root of what's driving them. Shift the mindset and allow God to change your thinking to do things in the proper and healthy way. I'm including myself in this too.

”For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

{2 Timothy 1:7"}