Focus
As you quiet yourself for this brief time, be willing to be open to God in whatever way that may take place.
Read
II Timothy 1: 3-7
“I am grateful to God – whom I worship with a clear conscience, as my ancestors did – when I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. Recalling your tears, I long to see you so that I may be filled with joy. I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that lived first in grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure lives in you. For this reason I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is within you through the laying on of my hands; for God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline.”
Reflect
Just Do It!
Paul is serving as Timothy’s cheerleader in the verses above. They had ministered together but now are separated with Paul in prison waiting for execution. Who better to speak about giving into fear? Service to God and using the gifts bestowed by Him is not for the faint of heart.
In addition to personal prayers, Paul continues by reminding Timothy of his generational faith heritage and the example that was set before him. In other words, you’re not alone, consequently, don’t give in to cowardice, which is not of God. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6). Feeling alone may lead to self-doubt and self-pity. Godly wisdom is to destroy thoughts exalting themselves against His Word and bring every feeling captive to the obedience of Christ (II Corinthians 10:5).
Timothy was called of God and had been given specific gifts to use in spreading the Gospel. Each Christian is called and armed with talents in carrying the Gospel message to the world. Allow Paul’s communication to Timothy also stir up the gift inside you. Cast away fearfulness and insecurities by acting in faith, depending on God to make straight your path. Use your God-given abilities to honor Him and ‘Just Do It!’
Pray
Father God, Lord and Savior, I come humbly thanking You for my salvation. I ask forgiveness for times I have failed to listen to Your voice and missed the joy obedience brings. I commit to being more sensitive to the leading and guiding of Your Holy Spirit as I boldly use gifts You have given me for the glory of Your kingdom here on earth. In Jesus precious name I pray, Amen
Go with God!
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