For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.

2 Timothy 1:7 NLT

https://bible.com/bible/116/2ti.1.7.NLT

I have never lived in a time like this. There is incredible freedom. Substantial cultural pressure to conform is intensifying. Connection with the world is increasing every day through technology. Polarization around ideology and power are pulling us apart. Much of this pressure is contrary to the ways of Jesus, as written in the Bible. As a follower of Jesus, it would be easy to become afraid and timid about living and sharing faith in Christ.

Photo by Edwin Andrade on Unsplash

Paul is writing to Timothy about the concern of being afraid and timid. Paul admonishes Timothy to stand in the power, love, and self-discipline that God has graciously provided. Rely on the Holy Spirit.  Do not live in fear or timidity. Even if you are imprisoned for your beliefs (as Paul was at this time) do not be ashamed of representing and giving witness to Jesus Christ.

Stay True.

Stay true to Jesus. Stay true to sharing the story of Jesus. Stay true living out the teachings and commands of Jesus. Trust the Holy Spirit to guide you.  Listen to the Holy Spirit. Take time to read, listen and watch God’s word. Find other people who will keep you encouraged in doing this. Stay True.

God has given us power, love, and self-discipline to help us stay true. Peter says that “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness.”(2 Peter 1:3) God is the power source. God is the power supply. God’s love is transformative. His love gives us a life of forgiveness and compassion that is simply incredible. We are given God’s love. Self-discipline is a life of focus on God. We shape our time and energy to focus the life of following Jesus.

Encouragement:  Reflect on the power, love and self-discipline God has given you to follow Jesus.  Identify how you have been afraid and timid about following and sharing the story of Jesus to others. Give the fear and timidity to God. Ask Him to replace it with His power, love and self-discipline. God will answer this prayer.

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for reminding us through Paul not to live in a way that is afraid or timid. Thank you for Your power, love and self-discipline given to us. May we live and share who You are in this world with great freedom and resolve. Please help us to stay true to You. 

In Jesus name,

Amen

-Ed McDowell, Executive Director
Warm Beach Camp and Conference Center