2 Timothy 1:7-"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (NKJV)

When I was a young boy and there was a thunderstorm outside my bedroom, I would be so afraid. I usually would go into my mom and dad's bedroom and tell my dad that I was afraid of the storm. My dad would always ask me a question, "What are you afraid of?" At the time I didn't really understand all the facts about thunderstorms. I had not been to college to study meteorology. I just knew that when the lightning flashed and the thunder boomed, I would get scared.

Thankfully, I no longer have those fears of a thunderstorm. I understand a little bit more about how they are formed and the precautions I need to protect myself. I can feel safe in the comfort and protection of my home. I can marvel at the power that a storm can bring and rely on God's protection while going through them. 

Today, I may not be afraid of thunderstorms, but I now deal with other kinds of situations that cause fear. Health, Finances, Job, Retirement and Family challenges are some of the things that can cause fear in my life. The question still comes to mind when I face these difficulties, "What are you afraid of?" What am I afraid of? What are you afraid of when you go through life's storms? Do we have to be afraid? Do we have to give in to anxiety and worries. What can we do to help overcome our fears?

Paul in talking to young Timothy in 2 Timothy 1 says that we don't have to fear the challenges that are ahead of us in this life. Why? Because we know that this type of fear does not come from our Heavenly Father. In fact, God has given us something different to deal with these difficulties. What are they? They are POWER, LOVE, and a SOUND MIND. These three things are deposited in our spirit by God when we trust and follow Him.

God has given us His Holy Spirit to empower us to overcome fear. Love shields us from experiencing fear because "Perfect Love drives out fear." (1 John 4:18) A Sound Mind allows us to focus on the truth of God's word and allows us to decern God's plan and purpose for our lives. (Philippians 4:8-9) The Word of God is always shielding us from the lies of the devil and those we try and tell ourselves. God wants us to understand that He is there with us no matter what we face. He longs for us to lean on Him and trust that everything will work out for our good and His glory.

So, to answer the question, "What are you afraid of?" The answer should be, "Nothing" because we know that our God is with us and has given us a new spirit of power, love and a sound mind. 

Prayer-Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for giving me a renewed spirit of power, love and a sound mind. I no longer have to be afraid of the things that come against me each day. I can have the assurance that you are always with me and protect me. You are the only thing that I can put my trust in that gives me peace. Help me to always lean on your power and your love as I focus on your word that produces a sound mind. You are an awesome God and I love you. In Jesus, your Son's name, Amen!!