For the Spirit of God...

“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid …”  

2 Timothy 1:7 NIV

These are the words of Paul, an Apostle of Christ Jesus, to Timothy, who was like a son to him. At that time, just as it is today, life was challenging and characterized by fear, uncertainty and doubt. When human beings lose control and the world seems to go off its rails, it is understandable that people become afraid and grasp for something to hold onto. In itself, this is not a problem, but it becomes an issue when fears gain control over people and paralyze them so that they can no longer think clearly.

That is why we need to remember—in times of crisis—that God has given us a spirit of power, love and self-control. When we are pressed from all sides—by wars, persecution, daily news or future warnings—we should not be ruled by fear, but by the confidence that we have not been abandoned and need not despair. The central question that we should ask ourselves is, “who or what determines how we live, think and respond? Is it Jesus Christ, who conquered death, that is the light of our world, is our bread of life and guides the way, the truth and the life for us personally?

As Communio Messianica, we think of the many MBBs and people who are persecuted and defenseless against dangers such as war and violence. For example, the two million Syrians in Lebanon, Turkey, and in refugee camps in the Middle East.

In times like these, we want to give them hope. To tell them not to despair, but to let God strengthen and encourage them to be able to react and live wisely … “for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7).

Let us hold fast to the promises of God, for HE retains control and has the final say.

Shalom

Rev. Dr. Yassir Eric