Headlines remind us we live in disturbing times. Many things happening today would cause us to be fearful, and yet we are often reluctant to talk about our fears because it doesn’t seem like the godly thing to do.
Paul’s spiritual son, Timothy, who ministered to the people of God, was not exempt from fear. Paul didn’t condone his fear or put him down for having it. Instead, he told Timothy this, “God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7)
After reading this, Timothy might have thought to himself, That’s easy for you to say!
Paul knew a life of service to the Lord would be filled with challenges which would test Timothy’s faith and cause fear. With wisdom and understanding from his own experiences, he lovingly reminded Timothy this type of fear didn’t come from God.
Examining Fear
There are good fears, such as the fear of God and a child’s healthy fear of touching a hot stove. But there are also fears which create anxiety and distress in our lives. It is particularly important to talk about these.
Anxious fear can place us in bondage. Many have spent sleepless nights tossing and turning because of fear!
Besides the physical consequences of fear, this emotion will also cripple and impede our spiritual growth. It will cause us to remain silent when we are called upon to speak out. It will cause us to be discouraged in ministry when we should be encouraged! It may even cause us to quit!
The Greek word used for fear in 2 Timothy 1:7 refers to cowardice that results from a lack of moral strength. Timothy may have been fearful to fulfill his duties because of a timid personality and the intense opposition he faced from false teachers. Things were rough for the young pastor, just as they may be difficult for you.
Contrasted with the word “fear” in Paul’s message to Timothy is “power.” It refers to the courage to fulfill ministerial duties, namely, the proclamation of the gospel.
During the difficulties of our times, we may feel fear, discouragement, and sometimes even abandonment by God. We must remember our calling in Christ and the power He has given us to still live for Him.
The Good News
In Romans 8:15 we are told, “For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption. . . .” Brothers and Sisters in Christ, you are adopted, not just by anyone but by God Himself.
You see, the Holy Spirit makes believers children of God. Here’s the big deal: We are loved with an undying love by God, who is our Heavenly Father.
It is important to note earthly suffering is not an eternal reality: “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” (Romans 8:18) The present sufferings Paul referenced encompass the full range of human experiences: Sickness, injury, natural disaster, financial loss, poverty, hunger, and death.[1] If Paul were writing today, present sufferings might include racial injustice, protests, rioting and looting, COVID-19, and layoffs.
More Good News
In Luke 11:11–13, Jesus said, “Now suppose one of you fathers is asked by his son for a fish; he will not give him a snake instead of a fish, will he? Or if he is asked for an egg, he will not give him a scorpion, will he? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?” (NASU)
The reality of our Heavenly Father’s goodness may not change our circumstances right now. More importantly, it should change our outlook on them. No matter what the fearful situation may be, we are still called to live like sons and daughters of God.
Sometimes our Father may cause us to experience the storms of life just like everyone else. In fact, sometimes He takes us right in the eye of the storm. But be encouraged — He remains in control. Even when our sails are torn, He still loves us! Listen as Ryan Stevenson reminds us why fear doesn’t have to immobilize us in the eye of our storms!
Article by Dr. L.W. Edwards
[1] Barry, J. D., Mangum, D., Brown, D. R., Heiser, M. S., Custis, M., Ritzema, E., … Bomar, D. (2012, 2016). Faithlife Study Bible (Ro 8:18). Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press.
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