Daily Christian Devotional

7 January, 2026

1 John 4.11-18, Psalm 72.1, 10-13, Mark 6.45-52

In 1 John we are reminded that love begins with God. “If God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” This love is not sentimental or abstract; it is revealed in Christ and made complete as it is lived out among us. Where God’s love abides, fear loses its power. Fear shrinks the heart, but love opens it, giving us confidence to live truthfully before God and one another.

Psalm 72 turns our gaze outward. God’s reign is shown in justice for the poor and deliverance for the needy. Love is never detached from compassion; it takes shape in mercy, care, and protection of the vulnerable.

In Mark’s Gospel, the disciples struggle against the wind, fearful and exhausted. Jesus comes to them across the water and says, “Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.” They do not yet understand, but his presence still brings calm. Love arrives not after fear is conquered, but in the midst of it.

This is the promise we hold: God’s love meets us where we are. As we learn to trust that love, fear loosens its grip, and we are freed to love others with courage and generosity.

---

Prayer

God of perfect love,
drive out our fear with your presence.
Abide in us, that we may abide in love,
and show your compassion to a fearful world.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.