For God has not given us a spirit of timidity but of power and love and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7, TLV

Context. In Paul’s second letter to his “spiritual” son, Timothy, he exhorts Timothy to press on without him. I have recited this verse for myself immeasurable times because of my issues with fear. This and other verses help center me back into the reality of who God is, and who I am as His child. But, knowing the context of this verse reveals even more helpful insights for us.

This letter is written by Paul in prison and is his last letter to Timothy before he dies. Paul has taught young Timothy for years, and now the young man will not have his mentor as he assumes his role as leader in Ephesus, because Paul knows his days are numbered.

Another two lessons

There are two powerful lessons here: 1) training up the youth to become leaders; 2) preparing the youth to be on their own.

I think, too often, we forget the second part in the mentoring and parenting process. A close, healthy relationship will struggle with letting go, but will press in. Joshua had the privilege of working side-by-side with Moses until the very end, Timothy didn’t. Paul did much of his training through letters, which must have been read and re-read by the young man. It must not have seemed real that the great Paul would really die after having survived so many trials.

Perhaps there is a third lesson. The words we share in print do have great impact — for good or destruction. And we can impact lives with the words of eternal life and truth. To prepare the youth for leadership to assume their role in God’s plan for the earth.

If we’ve learned anything from COVID, we’ve learned we can do a lot “imprisoned” in our homes. Let’s take what we’ve learned and make an even greater impact for His kingdom. Amen?