6/3/10 1 Timothy 6 & 2 Timothy 1
Power, Love, Discipline
(2 Ti 1:7)7For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.
Paul gives exhortation and encouragement here in this first chapter of the second letter to Timothy. Paul was probably released from prison in Rome and now has been arrested again. Paul senses that his death is probably imminent and he sends this passionate and final letter to Timothy to carry on the faith and the mission as Paul has done. There is a tremendous calling for young Timothy as there seems to be a hardening to the message of the gospel by the world. The apostles are quickly approaching their final days. Now the baton will be passed to the next generation.
Paul reminds Timothy that God has not given a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. The power that God gives will prove sufficient to face the suffering that will result from preaching and teaching the gospel. The love which God gives will motivate Timothy to not become idle and complacent concerning his calling to proclaim Jesus as Savior. The discipline which God has given will be necessary to carry out this calling, keep the standard of sound words, and to guard the treasure or spiritual inheritance which had been entrusted to Timothy.
Often believers do not live as if they have been given the power of God, the love of God, and the discipline needed to face a hostile world. Where are the Christians? Where are the saints of old who took the gospel message anywhere and everywhere in power, love, and discipline no matter what suffering may occur?
Prayer: All Powerful Father, forgive me for my timidity. Forgive your bride for ever being ashamed of her bridegroom. Lord, you have given your church everything needed to face a hostile and wicked generation. We are guilty of seek our own comfort rather than comforting those who do not know comfort. I plead for your forgiveness. I pray for you to transform me to trust in your power rather than my own, to rely on your love so I will love the unlovable, and for discipline to carry out your calling and gifting in my life. I am inadequate in myself and in my strength. I seek your grace. Kindle afresh the gift of God which has been given. I ask this for the sake of your great and might name, for my Savior and the Savior of all men Christ Jesus. Amen.