Read 2 Timothy 1:8.
It is one thing to be timid – lacking self-confidence (v. 7) – but another thing to lack confidence in God. Paul tells Timothy that because God can work through him, he need not be ashamed. What does it mean to be ashamed? Looking up the word in Webster’s, I found:
Ashamed: (1) feeling shame, distressed, or embarrassed by feelings of guilt, foolishness, or disgrace; (2) unwilling or restrained because of fear of shame, ridicule, or disapproval.
If Timothy’s gift was evangelism, it is likely he (like many of us) struggled with the fear of ridicule or disapproval. As followers of Christ, we have every reason to be bold and confident whenever we share Christ or are affiliated with His name in some way. It is okay to lack self-confidence, but it is not okay to lack God-confidence.
Why do we sometimes lack confidence in God? Perhaps it has less to do with confidence in God and more to do with not wanting to experience the suffering that may accompany our testimonies of Christ (whether it be in word or deed). This would explain why Paul tells Timothy not to be ashamed but rather “join me in suffering for the gospel.” There is no question that walking and talking Christ will at some point bring a certain amount of rejection and ridicule for us. (I doubt it will result in imprisonment in this country, however.) As Pastor Craig noted in his message, though, suffering is a mark of obedient faith. God’s best work is done through suffering. Our greatest growth occurs in suffering. Suffering enables us to appreciate the life to come later.
To consider: Have you ever been ashamed to be associated with Christ? If so, when? Have you ever overcome fear and testified of Christ (whether in word or deed) and as a result suffered in some way? How did the experience affect your faith? Pray today that God would help you overcome fear, accept the possibility of suffering, and share Christ with someone as He brings opportunity.