There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. 1 John 4:18
When we love someone, we are able to go to incredible lengths for their benefit. Not only do we put in time and effort for their good, but we are able to overcome otherwise scary obstacles. It might be small, like taking a risk in talking to someone or for someone. Or it may be as significant as stepping in to danger to protect someone. Maybe it means helping without worrying about what they think. Love overrides fear.
For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7
Our love for God enables us to be obedient in difficult situations. We do this imperfectly as our love is still imperfect. But the Spirit helps us in our weakness. The perfect love referred to in the New Testament is mature or complete. Only God has pure perfect love. But our love grows in maturity as we experience and better understand God’s love for us.
Love casts out fear, whether we are receiving it or giving it. Being loved gives us the confidence to live life fearlessly. And since God loves us perfectly, we are enabled to love our neighbor without fear. We can love others well, unafraid to act in their best interest.
I can say assuredly, along with King David,
“In God I trust and am not afraid.” Psalm 56:11
