‘For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.’ 2 Timothy 1:7(NLT)
‘But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”’ Acts of the Apostles 1:8(NLT)
‘The apostles testified powerfully to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God’s great blessing was upon them all. ‘ Acts of the Apostles 4:33(NLT)
‘I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called—his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance. I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power ‘ Ephesians 1:18-19(NLT)
‘I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. ‘ Ephesians 3:16(NLT)
‘We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, ‘ Colossians 1:11(NLT)
2 Timothy 1:7
God has not given us the spirit of fear or timidity. Too often believers fear using their gifts. They fear speaking up for Christ and the gospel. Being very honest, we have all experienced these fears at one time or another. Consequently, we failed to witness—to use our gift in speaking up for Christ and in proclaiming the gospel.
Is it possible to keep from fearing if we live for Christ in this world, a world that is so evil and abusive? How can we keep from being apprehensive if we witness for Christ day by day? How can we be bold when the world thinks that religion is to be kept in the church and not out in the world? How can we stand up for Christ when people mock and poke fun at anyone who lives for Christ? How can we stand for what God’s Word says is right? This verse tells us how: we let God equip us. God’s equipment does not include fear. The fact is clearly stated: God does not give us the spirit of timidity; God gives us the spirit of love and power, and of self-discipline. The word “spirit” means the believer’s spirit: the Holy Spirit of God actually injects power, love, and self-discipline into the spirit of the believer.
Study Questions:
- How can you let God equip you daily? Moment by moment?
- Do you tend to be fearful when it comes to speaking up for Christ? If yes, why?
- How can you live out the spirit of love and power and self-discipline? In what ways do you think your life would be changed?
from Finding Freedom From Fear