For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. – 2 Timothy 1:7
Timothy is one of the great church leaders mentioned in the New Testament. Knowing this, it would be easy to assume that he was a man full of confidence and boldness, sure of his role within the church. But despite his obvious gifts and calling, Timothy was actually not a bold man and he needed reassurance at times.
Paul knew this, which is why he wrote to remind Timothy of the power that God provides in 2 Timothy chapter 1. Like Timothy, everyone will find themselves in a situation that makes them feel uncertain or afraid at some point in their lives. But, as Paul reminded Timothy, the first step in managing those fears is to recognize that God provides the strength we need for any circumstance.
It is important to remember what God has given His children: a spirit of power, love, and self-control (or a ‘sound mind’ in some translations). With His power supporting you, the ability to love and serve others the way that Jesus did, and a calm mind that can ward off any worry that arises, you have what you need to face any situation.
With this knowledge in your mind today, talk with God. Ask Him to help you live each day with confidence, rather than fear or uncertainty. Pray that He would show you how to be bold and to remind you of the spirit He gives you, should you forget. Pray over the nation, that governing officials would make decisions out of the power, love, and sound mind that God provides.
Today’s Verse: 2 Timothy 1:7
for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: 1 John 4:13-18
13 By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. 14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 15 Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. 16 So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. 17 By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world. 18 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.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
