2 Timothy 1:7
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
The first thing I want us to consider is “failure.” We see it in 2 Timothy 1:3.
I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day;
Look at the word “conscience.” The conscience either accuses or excuses you. When it accuses you, it is concerning some failure or perceived failure on your part. See here the conscience in its “accusing” aspect (Genesis 42:20-21 and Matthew 27:3-4).
Not only can the conscience “accuse” but it can also “excuse.” The word “pure” in 2 Timothy 1:3 can mean innocent, guiltless, sincere, upright. See the excusing conscience here (Acts 23:1-2 and 2 Corinthians 7:11). Many times, fear (even a spirit of fear) can find its source in an accusing conscience.
What are the results of fear in a person’s life? While reading on this subject, I came across some interesting nuggets of truth from an online resource. I will quote/summarize those findings next (1)
First, fear can be limiting - Moses expressed fear and doubt about his ability to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 3:11). However, with God’s reassurance and the provision of Aaron as a spokesperson, Moses overcame fear and accepted his mission. This story teaches modern leaders that if they’re tasked with a mission, they can trust that they’ll have the necessary tools. You can overcome fear through trust.
Fear can also lead to disobedience and hardship - Jonah’s story shows us that trying to run from fear isn’t viable. When tasked with delivering a difficult message to Nineveh, Jonah ran away (Jonah 1), only to find himself in a more difficult situation—trapped in a whale’s belly! Leaders must face challenges head-on; avoiding difficult decisions can lead to worse outcomes. Although facing our fear is difficult and may lead to other difficulties, it is better to face your fears following God than run from them in disobedience. One person said, “Find out what you're afraid of and go live there.” Another element of truth we learn from Jonah is that hate is the consequence of fear; we fear something before we hate it. Jonah feared the Ninevites and therefore he came to hate them. Don't forget, "perfect love casteth out fear" - I John 4:18.
Fear Can Be Overcome - Despite his humble status, Gideon overcame fear and doubt to save Israel from the Midianites (Judges 6). His story teaches us that overcoming fear is possible when we seek and recognize God’s assurance.
Fear Can rob us of Blessings - Ananias had to overcome significant fear to visit Saul, known for persecuting Jesus’ disciples (Acts 9:13-14). Despite this, he obeyed God’s command, healed Saul, and played a crucial role in the transformation of Saul to Paul. This story proves that faith can be a powerful tool to overcome fear in leadership.
Finally, let’s consider “falling out” - Each one of these people above could have allowed fear to ruin them…You and I have a choice. Will we allow fear to conquer us? or will we win… despite fear?
Fear Must Not Be Allowed to Conquer Us
Peter’s fear led him to deny Jesus (Matthew 26:69-75), but this event became a turning point in his life. Instead of letting this failure define him, Peter overcame his fear, leading to personal growth and a stronger faith. In the same way, modern leaders should not let fear of failure hold them back but should use it as an opportunity for personal and professional growth.
Courage is not the absence of fear. It is doing what is necessary despite fear.
Where do we find “the force to continue” despite fear?
• Serve and Pray - 2 Timothy 1:3 - I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day;
• Develop Godly Friendships - 2 Timothy 1:4 - Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy;
• Remember, True-hearted Faith Is Real - 2 Timothy 1:5 - When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.
• Never forget the gift which God gave you...and "stir" it up!
2 Timothy 1:6 - Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.
This means to rekindle a flame that is dying! Any fire needs tending or it will go out! Do you remember the story surrounding this verse - Genesis 45:24 - Genesis 45:24 - So he sent his brethren away, and they departed: and he said unto them, See that ye fall not out by the way. Joseph's brothers were given a mission. They were to go back to the land of Canaan and bring their father to Egypt to live. Joseph gave them an assignment and told them not to fall out by the way. Don't stop until the assignment is completed.
What gift has God given you? What assignment do you have? Get after it and don't stop! Don't fall out by the way!