2 Timothy 1:7 The Spirit of Power

2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV)  For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 

God has not given us a spirit of fear. The word “fear” means “timidity, cowardice”. But the spirit of power. Spiritual strength, the dynamite power of the Holy Spirit’s inner working in the believer’s life to endure under the distress of persecution and incarceration.

And the spirit of love. This is the love of God shed aboard in our hearts by the Holy Spirit to serve unconditionally and sacrificially. This is divine love in action. And the spirit of a sound mind. It means “self-discipline, sound judgment and self-control”.

The Apostle Paul showed us the wonderful work of the Holy Spirit in the believer’s life – Romans 8:26-27 (KJV)  Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. 

The Holy Spirit enables the believer to be strong in the Lord and have the strength to do His Will. We must therefore consciously cast off any inkling of anxiety and servile fear but cling on the promises of God’s power, presence and provision. Amen.