Devotionals

Presidential Trepidation

by Anne Adams
06/16/24
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“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear …. I John 4:18a (NIV)

Today U.S. President, Benjamin Harrison, who was in office from 1889 to 1893, is not a major historical figure, but he did have a unique characteristic. When electricity was installed in 1891 in the White House he was the first president to have access to the new system. However, apparently despite his high office and great responsibility, this President of the United States seems to have feared electrocution. Thus he and the First Lady refused to touch the light switches so the White House staff had to turn the lights off and on. To put it another way, the President of the United States was apparently afraid of the unknown.

And occasionally so am I.

Of course for me the object of my fear is usually indistinctly vague – and often indefinable. Also, whatever it is, it’s often unexpected and unanticipated. In fact what I fear may never be reality!

So now and then I certainly deal with fear on my spiritual journey - but should I? Not according to the Apostle John in our passage. Yet does that mean that God’s love for me should preclude fear? Apparently it does especially when you think of fear as a form of worry – a trait that certainly fouls up my relationship with the Lord.

Yet when it comes right down to it, why should I worry – or have fear at any time? After all, it’s so pathetically silly and useless. Especially when we remember that when light was readily available in 1891 the First Family somehow chose to cope with darkness in the era’s most luxurious residence.

So ideally when I experience God’s love, fear should not be an issue.  For God’s in control - He loves me, and that should provide complete confidence. An assurance that comes from fearlessly concentrating on His love for me – for my benefit and His glory.