“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 the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time” 2 Timothy 1:6-9 (NIV)
Paul suffered so much and still he’s able to say ‘No, don’t be afraid to share the Gospel, remember what God has done for us.’ Christ died for us! So, we shouldn’t be ashamed of the gift that God has given us. Here in New Zealand, we don’t suffer for the Gospel as much as some who live in other parts of the world. So, we have less excuse to hide away and be fearful. At the end of the verse, it says God called Paul to be a preacher. God might not call you to be a preacher, but He calls you to be His hands and His feet. He will use you no matter your ability.
Kim Clark
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Why would I be ashamed of exciting news? Think about it. We would not be ashamed to tell people that we’ve achieved something or something exciting has happened. We would be quick to tell people. When I got my job at Elevate, I was so excited! I told all my friends and family. I put a post on Facebook. I even wrote an article about it. But we aren’t always as enthusiastic about the Gospel and our relationship with Christ. We may mention that we’re a Christian or go to church, but do we share about salvation, Christ’s death and resurrection, or the transformation in our lives?
Sharing our testimony with others is powerful. It can be an invitation for people to know Christ and start a relationship with Him. As Paul says in Romans 10:13-15, how can they believe if they have not heard. We need to tell people about the Gospel in order for them to believe. We can’t afford to be afraid of sharing the Gospel and telling our testimonies. Take courage, use your gifts and share the Gospel.
Manuele Teofilo
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A sound mind is knowing when a storm or problem comes my way, I am ready for it. Not because of me but because my God is for me. The Bible says that if God is for me, or for you, who can be against me. So, people take that and apply that into your life. Whatever situation, problem or storm that comes your way God is for you. So have no fear. Don’t fear the world or what’s happening around you.
Gods’ promises are yes and amen. So, when God says I’ll give you a spirit of power, love and a sound mind, then glorify and say, ‘Yes Lord, please, I receive that’. But to have that you have got to want it. You know it’s like serving God not because you have to but serving God because you want to. If you really want what God’s applying to our life, just open your heart, open your hand and say Lord I receive that.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for this reminder that your spirit in us gives us courage, love, and a sound mind. You give us the strength and the power to share the Gospel. That’s what you have called us to. Help us to be courageous and enthusiastic about your Word. Help us to tell our friends, family, workmates and those we meet about you. To you be all the glory. In Jesus name, amen.
Lani Va’a
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