In 2 Timothy 1:7, Paul is addressing Timothy and reminds him that God has not given us a spirit of fear. The Bible Verse Spirit of Fear fraise is specifically talking about the Christian blessing of being able to live without fear. Now, not without fear that we cannot be startled. Of course, we can be startled. What Paul was referring to is that we have absolutely nothing to fear. As a pastor said in a recent broadcast, “We are completely indestructible until God calls us home.” As Christians, we cannot die unless it is God’s well. We are fallen people in a fallen world so we can be hurt. But we will not die until God calls us home.
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
The Bible Verse Spirit of Fear
According to Paul and the rest of the full counsel of God, the Bible, God has given us a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. Not a spirit of fear, which is the Greek word deilias, meaning cowardice, fearfulness, or fear. What we were given is a spirit of power! The word power in Greek is dynameōs, meaning with power. In other words, God's power. Part of being a Christian is having the Holy Spirit of God living within us. His power is often made manifest through us. This power can only be used by following God's will and only for His perfect plan.
We are given a spirit of His Power, Love, and Discipline
We have the Spirit of God’s love. The word for love used in this passage is the Greek word agapēs. The selfless giving love perfected in Jesus's sacrificial love for us. Lastly, we, as Christians, have the spirit of a sound mind. Also known as self-control, which is the meaning of the Greek word sōphronismou. In reading the KJV version, you may think Paul is talking about not being a fool or senile. But the original Greek word is best-translated discipline or self-control. We are to control our thoughts and deeds to the best of our ability. Knowing that we cannot be perfect. But striving to stay within God’s will, according to Biblical scripture. Not out of obligation, because Jesus paid the full debt for our transgressions. But because we love and cherish our Lord and want to serve Him with all our hearts faithfully.
The Bible Verse Spirit of Fear Conclusion
We are indeed given a spirit of His Power, Love, and Discipline as a testimony of God’s love for us. He loved us so much that he gave his only Son as a sacrifice for our sins. A perfect sacrifice by a perfect man who is our perfect God. Jesus is that perfection! Just trying to behave like Him is a beautiful form of worship. Well-Deserved worship of our Almighty God. Praise His Holy Name!