Embracing Bold Faith: The Power of 2 Timothy 1:7-8

What if choosing faith over fear could transform not only your life but also those around you? Discover how embracing the spirit of power, love, and self-discipline can guide you through life's unpredictability and empower you to share your faith with confidence. In this episode of Divine Harmony, Her Voice in Faith, I, Cliche Rice, reflect on the profound message from 2 Timothy 1:7-8, where the Apostle Paul emboldens Timothy to stand firm in his mission, even amidst challenges and opposition. Together, we'll unpack how these teachings equip us to move boldly in our faith journey.

Join me as we dive into the importance of the Great Commission and explore how we can live out this calling every day. Hear personal stories of overcoming the fear of judgment and rejection, and learn how to recognize and seize opportunities to spread the good news. Through heartfelt discussions, you'll be encouraged to trust that God is always working behind the scenes, preparing not just you but also the hearts of those you're destined to reach. Let's embrace the courage to speak God's words with boldness and unwavering faith, knowing that He is with us every step of the way.

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:08

Welcome to Divine Harmony, her Voice in Faith. I'm your host, cliche Rice, and today we're talking about how we can choose faith over fear. No matter what season we're in, life can be unpredictable, but God's love remains unshakable. Fear often creeps in, especially during uncertain times, but God's word reminds us that we are not meant to live in fear. 2 Timothy 1.7 says for God gave us a spirit not of fear, but of power and love and self-control. This means that in every season we can trust God is with us, strengthening us to face any challenges. We often stop at verse 7, but when we read verses 7 and 8 together, we get a deeper understanding of God's word and what he meant in verse 7. So I'm going to do that right now. I'm going to read verse 7 and 8 together and it reads For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love and self-discipline. So never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord, and don't be ashamed of me either, even though I am in prison for him. With the strength God gives, you be ready to suffer with me for the sake of the good news.

Speaker 1: 1:21

Wow, powerful Paul is right into Timothy in a time of weakness and potential opposition for spreading the gospel. He reminds him that, while fear may come, it's how we respond to that fear that matters. God doesn't promise we won't face fear, but he promises his strength to stand firm. Paul encourages Timothy, reminding him that sharing the gospel will lead to opposition. But God is with him and we must press forward, knowing we will face challenges for his name's sake. Yes, verse 7 is often quoted for feel-good encouragement. But what about why Paul is telling Timothy this? We are called to spread the gospel, the good news, and that comes with fear Fear of rejection, fear of judgment, fear of failure, fear of what people will think, fear of what someone's response would be. But this passage gives me strength to push past that fear.

Speaker 1: 2:20

When I post about God on social media or when I feel led to speak to someone randomly at Walmart or the grocery store, I don't worry about what others might think anymore, or what they might say, or where I'm standing, or who might hear. I don't even think about that anymore. To be honest with you, I don't care. Actually, that's what I was going to say. I don't care. Anyone God places on our hearts to speak to, and I learned this he has already prepared their heart to receive it. We just have to be quiet enough to hear where the Holy Spirit is leading us. Remember, it's not us speaking, but God speaking through us. With that knowledge, we can move boldly in faith. God has not given us a spirit of fear, yes, but of power, love and self-discipline, equipping us to share his gospel with confidence. And that's what it's all about.

Speaker 1: 3:09

We should be spreading the good news every chance we get as we go about our day today. Let's choose faith over fear. Even in the toughest of times, trust that God is always working behind the scenes, bringing good into our lives. Remember, whenever fear tries to take over, replace it with faith. Stand firm in the knowledge that God is with you always. You are never alone. And don't forget to spread the good news of Christ to anyone who would listen. That is the number one commission. God said go out and make disciples is the number one commission. God said go out and make disciples. Go out and make disciples of men. That's what we're supposed to be doing.

Speaker 1: 3:51

All right, guys, let's have our closing prayer. Heavenly Father, I pray for a special anointing over all who speak your word. Help them feel bold and confident, regardless of the outcome. These are trying times that we are in, lord, and your people need to hear the hope found only in you, christ. Encourage and strengthen everyone going through challenges, and may all glory go to you. Touch the hearts of my listeners, father, god, lord, and let this message resonate deeply within them. Open their eyes and their ears to hear what you have for them. This world is yours, lord. It's not mine. I'm simply the vessel. Speak through me, touch hearts through me. I pray all of this in the mighty, the matchless and majestic name of our Savior and Lord, jesus Christ. Amen and amen.

Speaker 1: 4:48

All right, guys, I want you to have a wonderfully blessed day. Before we wrap up, I've got a little favor to ask If you've enjoyed today's episode. Don't keep it to yourself. Share the love like, subscribe and tell your friends to hop on the Divine Harmony train. It's free, it's easy and, trust me, it'll make your day a little brighter. So go ahead, hit that button and let's keep spreading the peace together. Catch you next time. Same time, same place. Bye-bye.