Paul sets an example for Timothy and then challenges him to rise to the same standard as a leader. He writes: "I remind you to kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline" (vv. 6-7).

 

So many leaders, especially men, wait on others to take the initiative in life. One could argue we have been suffering from passivity ever since the fall when Adam followed his wife into sin rather than taking the initiative to lead into righteousness. I believe that this is so important that in training my own son to be a real man, initiative was one of the five principles I taught him. Women, of course, can take initiative, lead, and become heroes as well. I am not suggesting otherwise. I am merely stating that too often men do not take the lead, especially as it relates to raising their children. I believe this is perhaps the greatest threat to our society today. I long for a time when the kingdom of God is so real to our people that the hearts of the fathers are turned back once more to their children (Mal. 4:6).

 

Paul was a real man and a spiritual father to Timothy. He went to Timothy and initiated a whole new level of spiritual leadership with him, and then challenged him not to be passive or timid or to go on retreat. Instead, he reminded him to demonstrate the power, love, and discipline of a true hero.

 

Paul goes on to raise this challenge higher with Timothy when he writes, "I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus...preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction" (4:1-2). He finishes this thought with, "Be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist [telling others the Good News of Jesus], fulfill your ministry" (v. 5). We must all fulfill the call of God on our lives by taking initiative when it is convenient and when it is not (2008:32).