OBSERVATION:
2 Timothy 1:7-11 New International Version (NIV)
7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 8 So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. 9 He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, 10 but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. 11 And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher.
INTERPRETATION:
The more I know Jesus…the more I’m not afraid to die
But embrace the future moment when I will meet Our Lord in the sky
We hold tightly to this “fallen” world, when we fear the unknown
But a heart in relationship with Jesus, The Christ, holds no fear…no fear was ever sewn
Into the hearts of those who trust in Jesus, into the minds of those redeemed by The Christ
For fear only exists in darkness, no fear exists in The Children of Light
No I can’t claim to have always felt this way… in times past I walked in the dark
The spirit of fear lived within me then… without power and self-discipline I embarked
On a journey without peace, a departure… toward the grave
But Jesus called me to live a Holy Life, fulfilling His purpose, He offered me grace
His purpose ordained before the beginning of time, revealed through relationship with Christ, Who trampled over the grave and conquered death, His believers are promised immortal life
Like the Apostle, Paul, who God appointed and called
I guard The Holy Spirit’s investment in me
To speak boldly my faith, through verse and rhyme
Communicating to you…eloquently
That you will fear NOT about death or what your future holds
If you will trust in Jesus, peace and eternity unfolds
For all who acknowledge The Lord, believing and trusting upon His name
He will give to you a fearless heart, because He loves YOU exactly the same
CORRELATION: Can you recall a time in your own life, when you were timid or afraid? What specific emotions surfaced during the experience?
COMMUNICATION: Share briefly in the comments section how disobedience to God’s Word causes fear. How does fear effect your character, your conduct and your conversations?
APPLICATION: Share your story with a friend, family member or co-worker, who may be dealing with a similar situation. Read and study God’s Word daily. Ask The Holy Spirit to reveal to you His wisdom, knowledge and discernment, so you will know how to apply His Word in your own life, as you help those around you utilize God’s Word in their lives as well.
QUOTATION: “Sound Bible study transforms the heart by training the mind and always places God at the center of the story.” – Jen Wilkin
