"For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind" (2 Timothy 1:7, NKJV).

I have to admit it. For years, I really did not like that scripture. Yes, it's often quoted when we talk to others about fear. Yes, it's often the scripture prayed over us. Yes, there's hope when God talks about love, power and a sound mind. But I must confess: I really hated that scripture.

Here's why?

When I did eventually let my guard down and share my "condition" with other Christians, their canned response would be: "But God hasn't given you a spirit of fear." Their eyes would squint and their head would tilt as they stared at you with a confused look on their face.

Here's what I heard, "You're a Christian, but apparently God is not walking with you. What have you done wrong?"

I know they meant good, but people just don't understand this condition. How could they? They have never experienced this kind of terror and torment.

Each time I heard that scripture quoted, my skin would crawl. I'd play back those piercing, painful words and looks from people. Even with God, I would cry out, "Well if you haven't given me a spirit of fear, then why I am I going through this?"

It wasn't until a couple of years ago that I began to understand this scripture. A pastor said to me, "Russ, God hasn't given you this spirit of fear. Yes, the enemy may have, but God hasn't. God wants you to have love and power and a sound mind. That's his desire for you."

It's true. God has good plans for you (Jeremiah 29:11). Those plans do not include fear, torment and bondage. No. Your Father's plans are peace, power and purpose.

He has not given you a spirit of fear--a spirit that binds you and holds you back. He has given you his Holy Spirit. The Comforter. The Counselor. The Spirit of peace, power and purpose.

Blessings!

Russell

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|  Russell Pond     <><
|  Season of Peace
|  email:  ponder@season.org
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© Russell Pond 1999
Reprinted with permission