“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV)
It’s amazing how one little verse can completely transform my entire day. I have a confession to make, one that, quite frankly, embarrasses me. Here goes…
I have been battling fear, timidity, and insecurity. I’m not quite sure why that was so hard for me to say, but it was. I am fully aware that most people struggle with at least one of those things, if not all three, so I know that I’m not alone in this. Still, I was so nervous to put that out there. “I’m a leader in women’s ministry. I shouldn’t struggle with those things, right?”
WRONG.
Over the past 7 weeks as I’ve made my way through a Bible study on the life and story of Gideon, the overwhelming truth that came bubbling to the surface in my life is that the fear, timidity, and insecurity that I’ve been wallowing in is NOT from God and NOT of God. Still, I have been operating in fear on many things that God has already spoken to me about very clearly. It hasn’t been an issue of whether or not I should do these things. God already told me that I should. It has been an issue of believing that what He’s called me to He will also equip me for. I’ve been doubting myself and my abilities, but also and more importantly, I’ve been doubting my God. The truth He keeps drawing me back to is 2 Timothy 1:7.
If fear is present in your life, you can be certain that it is NOT from God. Why? Because God is love, and Scripture tells us that perfect love casts out all fear. (1 John 4:18) So my friends, what are you afraid of? What or whom are you fearing? Can you agree with me today that it’s high time we say goodbye to fear, timidity, and insecurity? Can you come along side of me today and choose to live in the power, love, and self-control that is available to us through Jesus Christ? Will you stand firm on truth instead of allowing the lies from the enemy to fill your mind? Will you cast every lie back into the pit of darkness where they belong and instead walk in truth? I am praying for you today that you will. You are loved, cherished, and pursued by a mighty God, a God who is ABLE! Believe that today! Let this truth MARK you.
Definitely needed this today. I am struggling in all 3 areas as well. Thank you again for sharing your heart and bringing us back to pure truth of our Savior.
Perfect for me this morning! This past week greeted me with a new challenge and fear has been my life’s struggle. Meditating on this verse has given me hope and strength. Thank you Cherie!