When we allow people to intimidate us, we neutralise our effectiveness for God. Timothy had experienced great opposition as a young teacher and a leader. His youth, his association with Paul and his leadership had come under fire from believers and nonbelievers alike. Paul urged him to be bold.
“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 NIV
We too, at times, are under fire because of our faith, our belief and our Godly actions. As people who follow Jesus Christ and walk in obedience to His word, how can we become Powerful Witnesses to those who oppose us and stop us from being effective? The answer is – With the Help of the Holy Spirit.
The indwelling Spirit of God is a Gift of God and has many attributes that can make us different people, only if we allow Him to work through us. A couple of thoughts:
1. Spirit of God – Giving POWER
2. Spirit of God – Giving LOVE
3. Spirit of God – Giving SELF- DISCIPLINE
This morning, I am encouraged by this truth – God has given me everything through the Holy Spirit that is required to lead a godly life here on earth. Many of us undermine the Power of the Holy Spirit. We understand God the Father, We love God the Son – Jesus Christ, but when it comes to God the Holy Spirit – we have reservations. Whereas, the Gift of God – The Holy Spirit is the most powerful gift that has been given to mankind to serve the Purposes of God. Let us begin to hear from God’s Holy Spirit and allow Him to Work in and through our lives.
“His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.”
2 Peter 1:3 NIV
And so the encouragement that Paul gives to Timothy in his tough times is given to us this morning so that we can acknowledge the Power of the Most High through the Holy Spirit.
“What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus. Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us.”
2 Timothy 1:13-14 NIV
Amen
