Don’t Be Timid

“For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:6-7)

It’s easy to be timid. Would you agree? Sure, there are some people who seem to be bold and self-confident by nature. Yet, you can’t see the insecurities and doubts that plague their hearts.

It’s easy to be timid, especially when it comes to talking about our faith in Jesus. We can chatter away about all sorts of topics, but when there’s a chance to talk about Jesus, our mouths don’t want to open. Our minds don’t seem to have anything to say. Does this happen to you?

You’re not the only one. Apparently, Pastor Timothy also struggled with timidity. Paul had to remind him that the Holy Spirit “does not make us timid.” Timothy struggled with timidity just like we so often do.

Why? It’s not hard to imagine why Timothy would be timid. It doesn’t sound like Timothy’s father was a Christian. Did Dad’s disapproval lead him to be timid? Timothy’s teacher and friend—Paul—was in prison for sharing his faith. That would be a big reason to be timid! Timothy’s faith in God made him different than most of the people around him. Can you relate? How could Timothy not be timid?

Because he was never alone. God’s Holy Spirit was inside him, not with timidity, but with power, love, and self-discipline. The Word of God has power! The message that Jesus died on the cross and rose from the dead to save us has powerfully impacted hearts all over the world.

In addition, God’s Holy Spirit fills us with the incredible love of God. That Jesus would give his life for us… Wow! If the God of the universe loves you that much, why would you ever need to be afraid?

That same Holy Spirit would also give Timothy the words to say when he needed them. That was Jesus’ promise to his disciples (see Matthew 10:19-20). Nothing depended on Timothy. God had it covered!

Do you see what that means for you? Through his Word, God’s Holy Spirit gives you a power that no one can overcome. He empowers you to share the love that led our Savior to the cross. Don’t be timid!

Dear Jesus, the devil and the world make us timid to talk about you. Forgive us! Put your Holy Spirit into our hearts and fill us with the power, love, and self-discipline that come from your Word. Amen.