In 2 Timothy 1:7-8, the Apostle Paul exhorts his son in the faith, Timothy: "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me His prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God." (NIV)

Many refer to this epistle as Paul's last will & testament as he writes it while awaiting execution at the hands of Nero. Implicit also is the fact that it's mantle-passing time and Timothy will need courage to not only carry out his leadership duties to the church but face the opposition and persecution that's coming his way. History records he rises to the occasion as he eventually faces his own martyrdom. But as we read these words, we must also take them to heart and hear them not just for Timothy but for us as well. C.S. Lewis aptly said, "Courage is not simply one of the virtues, but the form of every virtue at the testing point." Every believer will eventually have their faith put to the test. This is especially so with respect to sharing the Gospel. May our words be the same as Paul who said in Romans 1:16: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek." (NKJV) O Lord, as it pertains to You, make us ever so bold, courageous, and unashamed...