Boast In The Lord January 18th, 2022

January 18th, 2022
by Francisco Pavia

A Word From Keith Campbell

“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,”
2 Timothy 1:6-9

For a long time, the biggest obstacle for me in sharing my faith with others was me. I did not feel equipped enough. I felt like my own past sin discredited me and my continued struggles disqualified me. Maybe if I worked harder or maybe if I just read my Bible a little more, I would be ready.
God used this passage to show me that what I was dealing with was the spirit of fear. I was letting my excuses take me off His mission for me. My timidity was playing right into the Devil’s hand.
I didn’t need to rely on my own flawed humanity because the strength I would draw on in those times of uncertainly and trouble was His, not mine. The gifts I possessed were His gifts. If He called me to speak boldly or to minister to an enemy, He would empower me. My job was to step out in faith.
I boast in God’s incredible grace in allowing and equipping me to be a part of His mission. If I draw near to Him, I can live a life without true fear. He can give me boldness to proclaim the life available in Him. He offers me gifts of power, love, and self-control. I should never be intimidated into silence.
And if I am ever in doubt on what to say, sometimes the best salvation message is my testimony. This is the story of how He saved me, changed me, blessed me, and continues a good work in me. It is the best evidence of the infinite power of God and His mercy.

Prayer: Father, I pray for our church and the body in this new year. Though the last few years have often felt dark and discouraging, we need to lift our eyes to you. We know of our eternal hope in Jesus. We ask that you strengthen our hearts in times of trouble and pour your Spirit upon us. We ask that you drive out the spirit of fear and fill us with the power, love, and self-control to boldly proclaim you before all the world. Thank you Father for the incredible blessing of being on mission with you!