2 Timothy 1:7 Paul refers to himself as a special messenger of Jesus by the Will of God, and he had a message, a reminder for Timothy. Since all scripture is good for teaching and training and discipline, so this reminder to Timothy is a lesson for life…ours too. Paul doesn’t want us to forget about the flame that burned bright when He first called us as His child. We’re to rekindle it, keep it burning strong. His encouragement is not to be ashamed, but to testify to and for the Lord. Paul goes on to remind… warn us that suffering may accompany the message given in the power of God. He reminds us the power of God is void of a spirit of timidity, of cowardice, of fear. How do we define that power? Is it bench pressing twice our weight? Or, is it unimaginable, indescribable power to accomplish His will while we’re here, in the flesh. Power to love like He does, unconditionally…to have a calmness in chaos and a well-balanced mind, one assured of a constant flow of the Wisdom of God. What power would there be in discipline? Is it the discipline of being in His presence? The discipline of approaching the throne of grace, convicted, leading to confession and repentance? Perhaps it’s the discipline of the ‘3rd watch’, our nightly prayers when we ask Him how we’ve offended Him…today? And, there’s the power in us for self-control…in a world out of control, this is no small thing. Our emotions run hot and cold, He gives us the power of control over those emotions. In our surrender to Him, our faith and trust in Him overflows into everything we do. Our emotions are no longer under control of the flesh, but are now measured with wisdom, selflessness, and trust in the One Who saves. The more time we spend in His presence, soaking in His Word, receiving…Him and all He is… the more He strengthens us in His power. Our new names are Loved, Fearless, Courageous, Peace… and Forgiven. Lord, we want to step out in Your power to accomplish what You have for us today, we’re clothed in it
