Yesterday I thought about the fact that as Christians, we are not to quit. “There is no quitting in Christianity.”
Paul in one of his last letters reminded young Timothy that Timothy was not to quit. “Therefore, I remind you to keep ablaze the gift of God that is in you through the laying on of my hands.” [2 Timothy 2:6 HCSB]
Just like Timothy, we are called to finish our race, not just begin one. We are called to be faithful to the end, not just at the beginning. We are called to endure during tribulations and challenges so that we might gain character and produce a proven hope.
How is that possible? With all the problems and ills of life, with all the trials that come our way, how is it possible to overcome the fear and “keep ablaze the gift of God”?
Well, Paul did not just tell Timothy not to quit, he told him how not to quit. First Paul reminded Timothy that fear is not of God, then he tells him what God has made available to overcome fear and “keep ablaze the gift of God.”
“For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.” [2 Timothy 2:7 HCSB]
We must recognize that fear does not come from God. What comes from God is power, love, and sound judgment. As we turn to God and appropriate His power, His love, and the sound judgment that comes from the Holy Spirit, we are made able to throw aside the fear with which the enemy threatens to overwhelm. God always provides what we need – even what we need to keep walking our walk with Him.
Of course, that means filling our hearts and minds with His Word, and learning to walk in His Ways, not our own. Amen
