Encouragement - Pt. 4

 

For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, for which I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher, which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that day what has been entrusted to me. (2 Timothy 1:7-12 ESV).

 

As we continue our focus on verses of encouragement today’s reading has gives us a clear insight into the mind and heart of the Apostle Paul. He says the gift of God to us is “not of fear but power and love and self-control” (v. 7). Later in this reading he says, “I know in who I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that day what has been entrusted to me” (v. 12).

 

The Pigeon Point Lighthouse along the Central California coastline was built in 1871 and is still an active Coast Guard aid to guide ships to port. In the last fifteen decades it has seen more than its share of storms. Through all of them it has stood as a beacon of safety and hope in the storm. I was curious about the history and after some bit of research I discovered there is more purpose than aesthetic in the design. Not all lighthouses are round. However, in situations where the lighthouse may directly encounter the fury of the sea, the round shape is naturally stronger than a rectangular or square shape. They’re a lot stronger when a wave hits them as the cylindrical shape distributes the force much better.

 

The apostle gives Timothy these last words of instruction and encouragement in the hope that he will be able to face the storms ahead with confidence and hope. When God called us to eternal life, a part of that calling was the gifting of power and strength by the presence of the Holy Spirit. This power is accompanied by power, love, and self-control. It is not given to fear. This is based in the truth that it is God who begins the work in us and finishes it successfully transporting us to our eternal home when the time comes for our departure from earth to heaven. This gives him confidence.  That confidence then becomes the foundation for perseverance. I am encouraged that God’s design for us withstands every storm. He can never fail us!