Power, Love and Self-Discipline

October 10

Jeremiah 11-12

Psalm 112:6-10

Proverbs 24:23-25

2 Timothy 1

Power, Love And Self-Discipline

“For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and self-discipline.” 

2 Timothy 1:7  LSB

Paul wrote this letter to Timothy who was a young man from Lystra.  Paul developed a relationship with Timothy during his second missionary journey.  He mentored him and then entrusted him to lead several churches including the one in Ephesus.  Timothy also spent time teaching and encouraging the churches in Philippi and Thessalonica.  He played a significant role in the early church.  Paul understood that because of his youth, there would be people who would question his authority and his wisdom.  Paul encouraged Timothy to be bold and carry out his mission with courage and determination.  He did not want Timothy to approach his ministry with timidity.  God had gifted him with the ability to speak and lead the church and Paul didn’t want him to be intimidated by anyone who questioned him.  He was not encouraging arrogance or pride.  Paul knew Timothy and he knew this was not his heart, but he also knew that fear could keep him from accomplishing everything God intended for him to do.  Paul wanted him to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit within him for the strength, love and self-discipline to fulfill his mission. 

This is an important reminder to us as well.  Whether we are young like Timothy or have the gray hairs and wrinkles to give us some credibility, there are always people who try to intimidate us and make us doubt what God is doing in our lives.  God has a purpose and ministry for each of us.  Whether we are in vocational ministry or God has given us a different function within the body, we need to approach our calling with humble boldness.  We cannot be fearful or timid, but we need to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit within us to do what He has called us to do.  We can stand firm in our faith and persevere even in the face of difficulty.  Our motivation should be love as we serve others and share the love of Jesus in the world.  Carrying out our purpose requires self-discipline.  The most important part of ministry is accomplished in our time with the Lord.  We cannot do what He has called us to do if we are not first filling our minds and our hearts with His Word and His presence.  We have to be filled before we can pour out to others.  Our attempts at service in our strength and ability will be ineffective and empty.  Our time with Him gives us the wisdom, strength and power we need so that we won’t get burned out and give up.  “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”  Matthew 11:29-30 LSB  He gives us everything we need to do what He calls us to do.  We can rely on His power and strength.  We don’t have to fear or be intimidated by the task in front of us.