March 2020

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7

In this scripture text, Paul is writing to Timothy from prison as Paul awaits his fate of death. Paul is encouraging Timothy not to be afraid to of accepting his calling in ministry even at his young age. Paul reminds Timothy of his upbringing and his qualifications for him to fulfill his purpose. Most of all, Paul tells him God has not given you a spirit of fear. Meaning what God has for you God has just for you. No matter who is against you, Timothy, there is no need to be afraid because if God is for you, then who can stand against you. Lastly, he reminds young Timothy that God has instilled in him the power to do what he is called to do; the love to make it happen the right way; and the wisdom to be shrewd as a snake but harmless as a dove.

The words shared with Timothy apply to us today. With all the chaos, pestilence, disease, and world confusion, it is easy to succumb to our fears, anxieties, and worries about life as a whole. We can feel hopeless and unempowered to make a difference. However, the same God of direction who had not given Timothy the spirit of fear is the same God of us today. We, too, do not have the spirit of fear, but the same spirit of power, love, and wisdom. God has given us the ability to be the calm in the storm. The voice of reason in chaos and love that conquers all. Allow what God has instilled in us to rise to the surface and lead for if God is with us, then who can stand against us.

Blessings,
Reverend Takana L. Jefferson, Chaplain, United States Navy