2 Timothy 1:6-14

Courage is a learned skill. We either learn to be courageous through the necessity of personal experience, or someone teaches us the value of courage. Paul’s letters in places make Timothy appear to be timid. Paul tells him that the spirit of God does not make us timid but rather gives us power and self-discipline. True courage requires self-discipline. Courage is not the result of fearlessness, and it is not the recklessness that is inspired by youthful ignorance and inexperience, and it is most definitely not the actions inspired by chemical alterations caused by alcohol or drugs. Courage is doing the right thing in spite of fear, even when there is no assurance of success.

Paul did not want Timothy to be ashamed of him or the gospel, but he also did not want him to be afraid of associating with him or the gospel. Serious persecution had begun in the capital of Rome and Christians were being killed just for proclaiming their faith. Common sense and logic would cause Timothy to be fearful. It is not unchristian to be afraid when the circumstances warrant it. However, being a Christian is about righteousness, and being fearful does not excuse us from the need to do what is right. Paul reminded Timothy to remember that he was not doing anything in his own strength, he had the presence and help of the Holy Spirit.

When Paul asked Timothy to join him in suffering for the gospel it is not exactly clear what he is asking. Some think he was asking Timothy to come and be with him in Rome for his final days, others believe he was asking Timothy to remain faithful even if it meant he would be persecuted in Ephesus. We do know that Paul wanted to be an example of courage for Timothy.

Courage is a skill that grows in strength the more we practice it. Paul’s courage in the face of verbal opposition prepared him to be courageous in the face of death.