“Not the spirit of fear”: a devotional on 2 Timothy 1:7

Paul was in prison in Rome, and he knew his life was nearing its end. He wrote to Timothy, a younger man he had trained and trusted to lead the church in Ephesus. Timothy seems to have been timid, perhaps young for his responsibilities and conscious of opposition. So Paul wrote words that have encouraged nervous believers ever since: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).

A letter from a friend

The letter is personal. Paul calls Timothy “my dearly beloved son” (verse 2) and says he remembers him in prayer “night and day” (verse 3). He recalls Timothy’s tears at their parting and longs to see him again. Paul mentions Timothy’s grandmother Lois and mother Eunice, whose “unfeigned faith” was passed on to him (verse 5). Timothy’s faith did not start with him; it was handed down at home.

Stir up the gift

“Stir up the gift of God, which is in thee” (verse 6). The image is of a fire that needs fanning. Gifts can grow cold through neglect or fear, and Paul urges Timothy to keep his burning.

The word translated “fear” carries the sense of cowardice or timidity. Paul is not saying Timothy will never feel afraid. He is saying that fear is not what God has given him, and should not rule him.

Power, love and a sound mind

Instead, God gives three things. Power, the strength to do what is asked. Love, which keeps power from becoming harsh. And a sound mind, self-control and clear thinking under pressure. Together they make for steady courage. Paul goes on: “Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner” (verse 8). Associating with a jailed apostle was risky. Paul asks Timothy to stand with him anyway.

For today and a prayer

Many believers face tasks that seem too big: leading a group, speaking up at work, caring for a sick relative, starting again after failure. This verse does not promise ease, but it promises what is needed. Father, when fear rises in me, remind me what you have given. Fill me with power, love and a sound mind, and help me stir up the gift you have placed in me. Amen.

Paul wrote this verse from a cell he did not expect to leave. Of the two men, he was the one with more reason to be afraid.