2 Timothy 1:6-7, “For this reason I remind you to fan into the flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
We all have a sphere of influence. God has given us spiritual gifts to be used in power, love, and self-discipline every day. He equips us to accomplish His will as the Holy Spirit leads. God has told us to be a light on a hill. We all need God’s help in not feeling anxious at times.
Timothy tended to be timid and didn’t like to confront people. He was feeling intimidated because he was young and was functioning in the absence of the most courageous and spiritual leader of all time, which was Paul. Timothy would be considered, much like myself, one who wants to keep the peace at all costs. We don’t like conflict. No doubt Timothy had charm and tremendous capacity to love others, but the downside was wrong and harmful motives or actions of others, Timothy might have excused, so no one’s offended, or feelings are hurt.
Paul had compassion for people yet never shied away from confronting error. One example is in Galatians 2:11-21, where he rebuked Peter for hypocrisy. Peter was an influential leader but led Barnabas and the rest of the Jewish Christians astray by forcing the Gentiles to observe Jewish table regulations if they wanted to eat with them. Paul called him out on their conduct for not being in step with the gospel. This shows us there is a time and place for stepping in and speaking up for what is correct and Biblical. Leaders must have boldness in challenging and supporting in order to liberate those under them.
“In 1 Timothy 1 and 2 there are no less than 25 different places where Paul encouraged Timothy to be bold, to not shy away from confrontation, to stand up when he needs to stand up and be strong. This was something that Timothy, being the kind of person he was, needed to hear.” David Guzik Commentary.
Humbleness is always required in leadership, much like David did in response to his oldest brother Eliab, who falsely accused David of being haughty and seeking attention (1 Sam. 17) due to his own jealousy, which festered his anger towards David in belittling him. David simply repeated his question once and then turned his back on Eliab. David then continued in the power of God to do what God called him to do and was not threatened or manipulated by Eliab.
The Message states 2 Timothy 1:6-7 this way, “And the special gift of ministry you received when I laid hands on you and prayed – keep that ablaze! God doesn’t want us to be shy with his gifts, but bold and loving and sensible.” Don’t let your age or lack of expertise intimidate you from what God has purposed you to do. Be bold and stand firm for the gospel of Christ. You have been given something to do that shows who God is.
Listen to Mercy Me Lyric Video – Flawless. 10/21/2017.