“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).
One source defines the word “spirit” in this passage as “…the human personality under the Spirit’s influence as in 1 Cor 4:21; Gal 6:1; 1 Pet 3:4.” (1) Another commentary expands upon this idea with the following insight…
“in Greek ‘spirit of’ often meant simply ‘attitude of.’ The exhortation not to be afraid was one of the most prominent biblical assurances from God (e.g., Gen_26:24; Jer_1:8) and was a customary expression of assurance from others as well (Gen_43:23).” (2)
Nevertheless, we should acknowledge that different types of fear exist, some of which are healthy and others that are not. For instance, a healthy type of fear is one that considers the negative consequences that might arise from a particular course of action and responds in a Godly manner. Jesus also reminded us that a positive type of fear reflects an element of respect…
“And I say to you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him who, after He has killed, has power to cast into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him!” (Luke 12:4-5).
On the other hand, unhealthy fears are often reflected in a “…spirit of timidity” (RSV) as mentioned here in 2 Timothy 1:7. This passage also brings to mind a well-known portion of Scripture from the New Testament book of Philippians…
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).
While it may be easy to talk about fear in an abstract manner, it is much more difficult to put this counsel into practice when facing a potentially fearful situation. Therefore, we should be honest with ourselves and honest with God concerning those areas of fear that we experience. If we prayerfully acknowledge those fears and seek God’s help in overcoming them, we can live out the words of 2 Timothy 1:7 and apply them in our lives.
As Jesus also counseled us on this subject…
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6:34 NIV).
(1) NET Bible notes on 2 Timothy 1:7 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Timothy%201%3A7&version=NET
(2) Craig S. Keener, The IVP Bible Background Commentary [2 Timothy 1:7]