Practical Courage - Teaching Material

God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). This verse reminds us that courage is not merely the absence of fear; it is the presence of something far greater—God’s empowering spirit within us. When Paul wrote this letter to Timothy, he was encouraging a young pastor facing challenges that might have caused him to retreat into doubt or inaction.

Consider the moment when you stand on the edge of a diving board, heart racing, eyes fixed on the water below. You might feel the instinct to hesitate, to pull back, but that moment of decision is also a moment of growth. Just like that dive, our spiritual growth often requires us to leap into the unknown, trusting that God has equipped us with the strength to overcome our fears.

This week, I challenge you to identify one area of your life where fear has held you back—perhaps in sharing your faith, serving in a new ministry, or stepping into a relationship where healing is needed. Let Paul’s words be your encouragement: lean into the spirit of power and love that God has placed within you.

When you take that step, even if it’s trembling, you are responding to the growth that God is orchestrating in your life. Trust that His perfect love will cast out the fear that seeks to keep you from your purpose. As you act in faith, remember, God’s spirit is your guide, your strength, and your source of courage.