Power and Love
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7
Having courage is having the character of God. It's having a sound mind instead of fearing what the future holds. Isn't that why a person needs courage? If they're scared? As this verse states, we haven't been given a spirit of fear. But we must believe Him at His Word and believe that we have power, love, and a sound mind.
Hebrews 11:6 says, "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarded of those who diligently seek Him." Believe that He is what? Believe that He is what His Word says He is. Believe that He has a good plan and purpose for you (Jer. 29:11). If you believe those things, it is much easier to have courage in the face of adversity because you know who is with you.
The spirit of power is supernatural – meaning it doesn't come from what you can muster up yourself, but it comes from the One living on the inside of you. Our courage, strength, and power come from Him. Many times we know what God has called us to do. And much of the time (in trying to be obedient), we forge ahead in our own strength and power. But as we learned yesterday, we are to wait on the Lord, and He will strengthen us with His supernatural strength.
Just remember that God is always by your side and on your side. Don't buy into the enemy's trick and fall into the trap of fear. Fear is designed to keep you right where you are – like being stuck in quicksand. Rise above his trap and have the courage to face your situation by faith, believing that His Word is working in your life. Amen?
Dear Lord, thank you for giving me the gift of power, love, and a sound mind. I thank you that through the Holy Spirit living on the inside of me, I can have the courage to face any situation that comes my way. Amen.