Fear vs. Holy Boldness
Pastor Calvin Cook
September 9, 2025
Scripture: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” — 2 Timothy 1:7
I recently found myself in a situation – where I wanted to be bold, speak up, and out in the midst of something I was observing. It wasn’t like anyone was being harmed or hurt or an injustice occurring. However, it was a situation I should have been bolder in my faith. One of those should have, could have, didn’t moments.
Sometimes when God calls us to step out in faith—whether it’s to share our testimony, to stand firm in truth, pray with someone or to walk into a new season of calling and ministry—we feel fear rise up inside us. Our hearts race, our minds fill with “what ifs,” and we begin to question whether we are capable or worthy. But Paul’s words to Timothy remind us of something we all need to take to heart — “Fear is not from God.”
Are you experiencing a fear of stepping into holy boldness, to forget the former things and focus on the things that God is doing in the moment. Remember—God didn’t give you that fear. He gave you something else: power, love, and a sound mind.
Power: Not our own strength, but the Spirit’s power at work in us: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8). This power emboldens us to speak truth and live courageously.
Love: The kind of love that casts out fear: “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” (1 John 4:18). Love redirects our focus from ourselves to God and others, fueling our courage with compassion.
Sound Mind: A steadiness that comes from the Spirit. When fear tries to cloud our thinking, God anchors us in His truth, giving us clarity and self-discipline. As I read one time “Breath in Jesus, Breath out the Holy Spirit.”
When you feel paralyzed by fear, ask yourself: Is this from God? If it pushes you away from obedience, it is not. Fear silences, but the Spirit gives you power and authority. Fear confuses, but the Spirit clarifies. Fear isolates, but the Spirit draws us closer to God and His people.
I personally know what it is to go through seasons of spiritual drought. I understand completely that many times we isolate and insulate ourselves from others especially God. But I also really believe that we are all especially in this day to live boldly in and for the name of Jesus. We have been given authority: “I have given you authority ………… to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.”(Luke 10:19)
So, it is time my Brothers and Sisters in Christ to claim all that God is desiring to do in our lives and through us as His people and as the Church.
Are you with me on this?
Prayer: Lord, forgive me for the times I’ve let fear hold me back from walking in the boldness You’ve called me to. Thank You for reminding me that fear is not from You. Today, fill me with Your Spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. Help me step forward in courage, knowing You go before me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thoughts from the Edges 
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