Through the Bible: 2 TimothySample

A Spirit of Power, Love, and a Sound Mind

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God,

2 Timothy 1:7-8 (NKJV)

This second epistle to Timothy, written in a dungeon in Rome, is Paul’s last letter before he was executed by Emperor Nero.

Paul knew that Timothy, being young and timid, needed encouragement as he faced many difficulties pastoring the Ephesus church. He exhorts Timothy to stir up his spiritual gifts and reminds him that God didn’t give him a spirit of fear. Instead, God had equipped him with love, power, and a sound mind.

Fear can immobilize and torment its victims, making them powerless and alone. In the face of fear, we are to remember that we have within us: (1) the power of God, through the Holy Spirit, enabling us to no longer be victims; (2) the perfect love of God, poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit (Rom 5:5); and (3) the mind of Christ by which we can apply the ways of God in making “sound” choices. In applying this truth, we are able to overcome our fears.

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You for giving us all a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind and because of this, we can face our fears and are not ashamed of You. May we be disciplined to step out in faith and use our spiritual gifts to accomplish Your purposes. Holy Spirit, help us also to defend the truth of the Gospel. In Jesus’ name. Amen.