Faith: A Great Inheritance

II Timothy 1:5-7

There are a lot of things we want to pass on to the next generation. A good work ethic is a much needed trait to pass on to the younger generations. Good morals and manners are great to pass on. In our text today, Paul talks about passing faith on to the next generation.

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When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also. 6 Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

II Timothy 1:5-7

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Paul starts by reminding Timothy of the faith of his grandmother and mother. Paul tells Timothy that these to women had taught him to have great faith. The word "unfeigned" means "without hypocrisy". Their faith was real. What they taught Timothy was to trust God to keep His word. That is faith.

Paul starts by reminding Timothy of the faith of his grandmother and mother. Paul tells Timothy that these to women had taught him to have great faith. The word "unfeigned" means "without hypocrisy". Their faith was real. What they taught Timothy was to trust God to keep His word. That is faith.at is true for us as well. We are not responsible for the outcome. We are responsible for trusting God.

Finally, Paul gets to that famous verse about the spirit of fear. God does not give us a spirt of fear that cripples us from doing His work. This does not mean that we do not ever experience fear. There are things we should absolutely be afraid of. However, that fear should not cripple us. Daniel did the right thing, even though he would have certainly been afraid of the lions teeth. He trusted God more than his fear. That is because he loved God and he knew God loves him.

The whole discussion goes back to faith. This text shows us the importance of teaching our children and grandchildren to have faith in God. It shows us that they need to see our faith. Our faith equips us to obey God and to accomplish what He equips us to do. Then, that faith removes internal obstacles that would keep us from being obedient. It removes the obstacle of fear that keeps us from sharing our faith with others. Fear has to go!

Thank you Lord for this text. So often we are all plagued with fear of "what if". Lord increase my faith, or as the father said "help mine unbelief". Thank you for loving us and equipping us for your work.