Thinking About Courage - Commentary

Courage is not merely the absence of fear; it is the presence of faith. In 2 Timothy 1:7, Paul writes, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” Here, we see a profound truth: our fear can be transformed into something powerful and life-giving. When Timothy faced challenges in his ministry, Paul reminded him that God equips us not with timidity but with boldness rooted in divine love and clarity.

Imagine a young man standing at the edge of a vast ocean, waves crashing with uncertainty. He knows the water is deep and the currents can be strong. Fear whispers in his ear, warning him against the unknown. Yet, as he takes a step forward, he feels the cool embrace of the water, revealing not only its depth but also its beauty. This is the essence of faith. It invites us to dive deeper, to trust that God is with us, guiding our every move.

Transformation happens when we embrace our fears and let the Spirit empower us. Each step taken in faith, even when uncertain, is a step toward spiritual growth and purpose. As we reflect on our own lives, let us ask ourselves: What fears are holding us back? How might God be calling us to courageously step forward, trusting in His power, love, and soundness of mind? The journey of faith is not a solo expedition; it’s a collective march toward a future filled with hope, illuminated by the light of His promises.