7For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
8So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God.
- P23
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus, writes to Timothy, whom he calls his dearson. Paul remembers Timothy‘s sincere faith and urges him to fan into flamethe gift of God, which is in him. He reminds Timothy that the Spirit God gavebelievers gives them power, love, and self-discipline, and encourages him notto be ashamed of the testimony about the Lord.- P23
Paul writes with urgency and passion to his spiritual son, Timothy. Remembering Timothy’s tears from when they last saw each other, Paul reassures him that he is constantly praying for him and cannot wait to see him again because meeting with Timothy brings Paul joy. - P24
Although he is writing from prison, Paul’s conscience is clear; he knows that he has been a faithful servant of the Lord. He also recognizes the multi-generational blessing of sincere faith in Timothy’s family. - P24
May we value not only the good friends and mentors in our lives but also the long history of those who have been faithful as we ourselves partake in God’s story of redemption and do our part to serve the Lord.- P24
Paul reminds Timothy to passionately and boldly serve God, knowing thatthe Spirit has equipped him with power, love, and self-discipline. Paul urgesTimothy not to be ashamed of being a Christian or of being associatedwith him, who is imprisoned for preaching the gospel. - P24
Rather than beingafraid of suffering, Timothy is exhorted to join in it with the confidencethat God‘s power is at work. - P24
Sometimes, we forget that the same God whocalls us to serve Him also equips us with His power, love, and self-discipline.
- P24
When we feel timid or even ashamed of preaching the gospel, let us relyon the power of Christ and boldly and passionately use our gifts to live outour calling.- P24
Dear God, thank you for equipping me with Your power, love, and self-discipline. When I start to feel timid, reinvigorate me to boldly and unashamedly live out my calling as Your faithful servant. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.- P24
