A Spirit Not of Fear

…for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control, (2 Timothy 1:7).

That is a difficult verse to read. It echoes through the pages of the Bible and resonates with our hearts. A spirit of fear overwhelms each of us from time to time, worming its way into our thoughts and establishing residence there. For some of us, the spirit of fear has backed us into a corner, isolating us from what God has for us. He invites worry and anxiety to attack our thoughts as well.

But Paul reassures us that the spirit of fear is not of God. It keeps us merely observing through the window of life instead of stepping out onto the path paved for us by God, and fully living. However, we are reminded that God gives us the Holy Spirit, filled with power, love and self-control. He allows us to live out our faith with confidence as we serve one another in brotherly love. Self-control protects us from taking offense, guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Our words and actions are reflections of Christ in us, therefore shining His light in the world. Our being seeks to give Him glory in all things, overwhelming the spirit of fear with His Truth!

As we walk through life, let us remind each other of God’s power within us. The Holy Spirit is just that: Holy! His presence has authority in our lives and intercedes on our behalf. Let’s embrace His Truth over our thoughts and capture the lies that keep us from living. Let’s do it together!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for filling us with Your Holy Spirit. We pray that when the spirit of fear attempts to take our thoughts captive, that the Holy Spirit intercedes with the power that only comes from You. Establish our path and may we live in the confidence of knowing that we are not alone. May our lives reflect Your power, love, and self-control, bringing you glory in all that we do and say. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.