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

Human fear binds us, imprisons us, keeps us from the adventure of life! We hide behind the timid demeanour and are afraid of everything and anything, and life passes by. Sometimes this fear, from whatever it may be, keeps people imprisoned in their home, away from friends and family. Some fear they don’t work hard enough to gain God’s favour and love, and thereby do not receive His grace as authentic. This fear is bondage and cowardice. The Christ follower is given a three-fold gift. First, we have the spirit of power. We have the power to teach and speak about the Kingdom of God, to not fear a world which would persecute, but to stand boldly in the name of Jesus and proclaim Him. Second, is the spirit of love. God is love, and all He does toward us stems from His great love. Genuine Christians are kind and caring, looking out for the one for whom life is a struggle. They are benevolent. Third, He gives us a sound mind, or here it is a mind which is prone to self-discipline. This is a mind which has a hunger for knowledge and to live a life which is calm and reasonable, living a life contrasted to pride and self-conceit. J. Barlow wrote: “For power without love can work, but will not. Love without power would work, but cannot. And power and love can and will, but a sound mind is requisite to guide both.” Power, love and a sound mind…an absolute necessity for every Christian follower of Jesus.  
Devotion by Pastor Julia

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