For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.
Secondly, He endeavours to draw into this spiritual sin of error, as the most subtle and effectual means to weaken, if not destroy the power of godliness in them. The apostle joins the spirit of power and a sound mind together, 2 Tim. i. 7. Indeed the power of holiness in practice depends much on the soundness of judgment.
Commenting on Ephesians 6:10-20
God gives His messengers not the spirit of fear but of courage, love to God and souls that makes us tireless, and a sound mind that masters our passions and knows when to be severe and when gentle. Love is the true root of obedience; all our service must flow from it.
AI summary
Timothy was likely diffident by nature, so Paul encourages him: God gives not timidity but power to endure trials, love to Christ and dying souls that casts out fear, and a balanced mind seeing all things in true proportion. This threefold gift, not miraculous signs, is what a minister truly needs.
AI summary