For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." - 2 Timothy 1:7
2 Timothy is Paul's last letter he wrote and he wrote it to his beloved Timothy, his protege. He loved Timothy like a son. Paul is writing to pass on the torch, to give Timothy encouragement. He has been sitting in a jail cell virtually alone and will be executed shortly. So take to heart the words in 2 Timothy. It's a father, nearing the end of his life, giving him his last words of advice.
It's also important to know that Timothy is leading a church in Ephesus and facing great opposition. Ephesus was well known for its strong belief in their pagan gods and idols. It was very corrupt.
2 Timothy 1:7 resonates with me. So many times fear and timidity take over in sharing the Gospel or even giving Godly sound advice. And fear and timidity don't just take over around non Christians and takes over in bible studies, a small group, church, my family, my business. Who am I to share my faith and what God has taught me around the strong believers, among all the leaders in this world. My faith is but little.
This verse proves otherwise. Once we are baptized in the Holy Spirit, Christ gives us power, love, and self-discipline. Three character traits that help us to lead a life worthy of his calling (eph 4:1). These traits help us to lead and all of us are leaders even if you don't think so. We lead someone. We affect someone's life.
I love how Christ shares through Paul the importance of these three traits. Three words where the meaning seems so simple but the actions are beyond difficult at times.
Power - to speak boldly, stand up for what is right, stand firm in your faith. Let God show his power through you.
Love - a selfless, full of grace and mercy, always forgiving, full of joy love
self-discipline - doing what is right in God's eyes. Staying away from harmful actions and clinging and holding tight to his instructions.
Paul gave these three words to encourage Timothy in leading the church, God gave them to us to challenge us to impact just one life. Even if it's our own.
Finding hope in His word.