NO FEAR

2 Timothy 1:7

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7

The whole picture in this verse is not talking about a fear of God, but a fear of man, a fear of what could happen to us in this world, a fear of things going this way or that way around us, fear of circumstances, and all kinds of ways like that. God has not given us a spirit of fear though. He has given us a spirit of power and love and self-control. The whole picture here is of boldness, humble confidence, and power to love in the middle of a world of uncertainty, and to have self-control when you can't control the things around you.

When you're following God's plan for your life, it can be easy to become afraid. God often asks us to do things that feel bigger than we are. They are often out of our comfort zone and sometimes, it's easy to want to ignore what God is telling you to do because it isn't easy. Oftentimes fear becomes a big player in us giving up on our dreams. Maybe you fear that you'll make the wrong decision, so you never step out and make a decision. Maybe you fear people and rejection and so that fear keeps you from doing the things God has placed on your heart.

We all need power in our lives, but true strength does not come from relying on our own capabilities, but on Christ, Who has promised that His grace is sufficient for all the dificulties and dangers of life we may have to face. His strength is made Perfect in our weakness for when we are weak in our own abilities, then we become strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.

We all need love in our lives, but true godly love is not something we struggle to produce through our own fleshly efforts but can only be produced in us as spiritual fruit as we abide in Christ and He in us. We all need sound judgment and a disciplined mind, but we cannot achieve this by self-effort and fleshly struggling, nor can this be developed through extra-biblical training programs or webinars. But as we look to Jesus and willingly submit to the on-going child training and chastening work of the Holy Spirit within, we will experience an inexplicable, inner peace that passes understanding, for this is the promise of God to all whose mind is resting in Christ.

Today, whatever your fear looks like, know that it's not from God. God hasn't given you fear, so if fear is stopping you, then it's not godly. Determine today to live fearlessly.

Don't let your fears keep you from doing what God has called you to do!!!

Father, thank You for this day and we praise and thank You for Your indwelling Holy Spirit and thank You that our life is hidden with Christ in God. Lord, open the floodgates of heaven and pour out Your abundant blessings upon my friends and family today. Lord, thank You that You have not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power and love, and of a sound mind. Lord, we will not fear rejection or ridicule in this increasingly hostile world, nor fear the likelihood of persecution, pain or even death, and may we fan into flames our faith in You, so that in you we may stand firm in the day. Lord, use us to be someone's blessing today.

Father, we love You. Amen.