For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. – (2 Timothy 1:7, NIV)
The Spirit God gave us does not make us afraid. His Spirit is a source of power and love and self-control. – (2 Timothy 1:7, ERV)
You see, God did not give us a cowardly spirit but a powerful, loving, and disciplined spirit. – (2 Timothy 1:7, VOICE)
God’s intention for us is not to be afraid or timid, but to trust in His power and love and to seek Him to be self-disciplined. Not surprisingly, they all seem to go together. As I am disciplined to seek Him and spend time in His word, I become more aware of His power and love at work, both in and through me, and discover that there is no fear in perfect love. It does not mean that everything is easy or that fear never arises, but it does mean that I know Who goes before me, walks with me, and will remain present through all things and at all times. God is always good, no matter what life brings. I am so grateful for His loving kindness, as He makes a way where there seems to be no way, and provides peace, even in spaces that are full of chaos. May we ever seek the Lord and trust in Him, for He is our strength, love, and self-discipline, and He is greater than anything that stands before us that might cause fear.
We need not choose fear,
for God is stronger;
than all that we face,
His love lasts longer.
God’s love, our comfort,
the place we find peace;
His truth that triumphs,
where fear is released.
The more we seek Him,
the more that we learn;
self-discipline comes,
as to Him we turn.
All praise to the Lord,
our sweet space of peace;
where love overflows,
and grace is released.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that there is no fear in perfect love, and You alone, love perfectly. Thank You that You supply strength and self-discipline as we seek You, and Your love surrounds us and fills us to overflowing. Thank You that when our eyes are set on You, fear disappears. Forgive us for allowing fear a foothold, for You hold us in the hollow of Your hands. Teach us to trust and rely on You more, so that we run to You and seek You to lead and guide us in all things. Show us how to love those around us well, so that they too, may know and understand the power of Your perfect love. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we place our trust in You as You grant us strength, love and power to overcome fear and walk in boldness and love. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present
There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. – 1 John 4:18