Are You Afraid?

Are you afraid?

“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7).

These were the words of the apostle Paul to his young protégé Timothy. Timothy obviously struggled with fearfulness and timidity.

Is that what you deal with as well?

As Paul wrote to Timothy he encouraged him to use the gifts God had given him to the very fullest. He told him to fan into flame the gift that God had placed upon him (2 Timothy 1:6).

Paul wanted Timothy to live fully and completely for God, obeying Him in everything and making the most of every opportunity to advance the work of the Gospel.

Timothy’s reluctance must have gotten in the way. For that reason, Paul reminded him that his reluctance did not come from God’s Spirit. The Spirit God gave us does not make us timid or afraid. Instead, God’s Spirit gives us power, love, and self-discipline.

Notice these three words and how they come together. God’s Spirit gives us power, love, and self discipline or as it is translated in some translations “a sound mind.”

Power is bestowed to accomplish God’s mission and purpose. We are not on our own or without power. Our power comes from God’s Spirit and in conjunction with love. Love means that we will always look for the highest and best good for others. Power by itself may become selfish and self-seeking but in conjunction with God’s love we use God’s power benevolently.

God’s Spirit also gives us self-control. Self-control is the final aspect of the fruit of God’s Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23).

Given together, power, love, and self-discipline equip the child of God for every good work God has called us to do.

The next time you experience timidity or fearfulness be sure to remember Paul’s encouragement for Timothy: “For the Spirit God gives us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.”

Each day I write a daily devotional aimed at helping believers grow in their knowledge and closeness with the Lord Jesus. If you would like to receive my free daily devotionals, please subscribe at WaylonBailey.com. If you have been helped by this post, please share it with someone else.

 

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