Paul's purpose for writing to Timothy was to encourage him and to remind him never to give up. The early church faced all kinds of trials and temptations. There were many who challenged Paul's teaching. They also challenged Timothy's spiritual leadership.
Religious teachers then, just like many today, tried to water down God's Word and Truth. Paul writes: "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 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. He has saved us and called us to a holy life" (2 Timothy 1:7-9).
Begin by refusing to compromise your convictions.
There are many who attend church and are involved in religious work, but they remain afraid to speak God's Truth, especially when facing moral and spiritual issues.
Paul reminds Timothy to be strong, firm in his faith, and steadfast in his devotion to God. When we refuse to compromise our convictions, we experience a God-given strength throughout our lives. But when we waver between what we know is right and wrong—between God's principles and the world's political correctness—we become unstable in all we do.
How do you avoid becoming fearful and doubting? Begin by refusing to compromise your convictions. Don't sell out to the world's deception. Then you will remain strong in your faith. If Timothy had taken his eyes off Christ, he would have weakened, and his ministry would have been ineffective.
Refuse to dilute the Truth of the Gospel to try to cater to fallen men. Don't deny God's Truth so that you may feel popular. Never be ashamed of God's Word. Cling to it because it is the light unto your path.
Prayer: Lord, forgive me for the times I have been too timid to stand firm in my faith—too timid to share Your Truth. May I find strength in Your Spirit to not be ashamed of the Gospel, but to share this good news with the lost. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
"And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher. That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed" (2 Timothy 1:11-12).
Learn more in Dr. Michael Youssef's sermon Don't Ever Give Up, Part 2: LISTEN NOW
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