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Timidity

 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.  (II Timothy 1:7)

          What is the difference between being timid and being humble? I’ve read numerous translations of today’s verse many times over the years, but the question about timidity versus humility only came to mind today. To be humble is to choose not to put oneself forward. As an example, let’s say that you can bench press (raw) 750 lbs. It’s not quite a world record, but you know you can do it. You did a set today. Suppose you went to the gym and someone bench pressed 500 lbs., or 250, or 50. If you’re humble, you choose not to show him how it’s done. You don’t tell him, “Yeah, I remember when I was at that level.” At the moment, what matters is the other guy’s victory. On the other hand, timidity would involve not being able to tell him. Humbleness turns the focus on the other person. Timidity turns the focus away from oneself. “I’m a worm!” (in its normal meaning) is a statement of timidity.

          This isn’t what God has given us. He has given us a Spirit that gives us power, love, and self-discipline. We are able to do what He calls us to do. It may not be easy, but that doesn’t frighten us. We don’t have to turn the focus away from ourselves, but we can turn it to others.

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