The antidote for timidity

1 Timothy 6:11-16

¹¹ But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things. Pursue righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness. ¹² Fight the good fight for the true faith. Hold tightly to the eternal life to which God has called you, which you have declared so well before many witnesses. ¹³ And I charge you before God, who gives life to all, and before Christ Jesus, who gave a good testimony before Pontius Pilate, ¹⁴ that you obey this command without wavering. Then no one can find fault with you from now until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. ¹⁵ For at just the right time Christ will be revealed from heaven by the blessed and only almighty God, the King of all kings and Lord of all lords. ¹⁶ He alone can never die, and he lives in light so brilliant that no human can approach him. No human eye has ever seen him, nor ever will. All honor and power to him forever! Amen.

I am reminded today that Timothy was a young pastor entrusted with looking after a massive and complex church. I suspect Timothy’s natural disposition was one of holding back, letting others speak, and avoiding conflict and confrontation (see 2 Timothy 1:7). Sound familiar? I know it does for me. Here are five things from this passage that act as an antidote for timidity –

1. We need a Godly, spiritual mentor.

We all need someone we allow into our lives, highlighting our weaknesses and reminding us of who we are (see verse 11, “But you, Timothy, are a man of God!)

2. We are under orders.

Paul charges Timothy. This is a military charge, not a helpful suggestion. “Timothy – you must obey!” No ifs or buts (see verse 14). What is the order? To flee from sin, to follow the ways of righteousness, and to fight the good fight of faith against the enemy – not people in the church, but the spiritual forces seeking to destroy the church. Get moving – you’re under orders!

3. We need to focus on eternity

Because heaven is worth it. Because Jesus is worth it. Because in Christ, eternity is already ours. Because one day our labours for Jesus will pay off. Because this life is so temporary and eternity so gloriously long. Eternity is our real home (see verse 12)

4. We need to stand firm like Jesus

Picture Jesus standing before Pontius Pilate, just before He was crucified. He didn’t back down, or pander, or plead. For the most part, He didn’t even answer Pilate’s questions. When Pilate said, “Don’t you realise I have the power to release you?” Jesus essentially said, “no you don’t” (see John 19:11). Jesus stood firm – let him inspire you to do the same.

5. We need to focus on God

We only have one commander and chief – God himself. He is King of Kings. He alone is Lord of Lords. He alone has conquered death – and he is for us! The God who made the universe – He is on my side. With resources like that, who could ever be timid again? (see Psalm 27).

God of heaven and earth, help me to, once and for all, defeat the spirit of timidity that so often lurks in my heart. Remind me of the standing order to flee from sin, to follow after righteousness, and keep fighting this battle of faith – for others as well as my own. And help me focus on you. I have Jesus, I have God on my side – I’m good to go! Amen

Written by B van Noppen