1:7

God did not give us a spirit of: In this context, the Greek word for “spirit” (pneuʹma) can refer to God’s holy spirit or to a person’s dominant mental attitude. (See Glossary, “Spirit.”) Paul may, in fact, have had both meanings in mind. The overall idea could be expressed as follows: “The holy spirit that God gives us does not produce in us a spirit of cowardice but one of power and of love and of soundness of mind.”

cowardice: The Greek word rendered “cowardice” refers to an unhealthy fear, a moral weakness. Such fear could rob a Christian of all courage and could drive him to abandon true worship.

one of power: By using this expression, Paul assures Timothy that Christians do not have to rely on personal bravery or courage in order to overcome fear. Rather, God would impart the power they needed to accomplish their ministry and to rise above any frightening problems or challenges.​—2Co 4:7-10; 12:9, 10; Php 4:13.

one . . . of love: Strong love for Jehovah is the antidote to fear. (1Jo 4:18) Love moves Christ’s followers to put the needs of others ahead of their own. It even makes them willing to risk their life for the sake of others.​—See study notes on Joh 13:34; Ro 16:4.

one . . . of soundness of mind: Several times Paul mentions the quality of being sound in mind. (Ro 12:3; 1Ti 2:9, 15; 3:2 and study note) Here Paul suggests that it helps Christians to keep their balance even when they face dangers that might otherwise cause them to panic. Soundness of mind also helps a Christian to remember that nothing matters more than his relationship with Jehovah. All three of these qualities​—power, love, and soundness of mind​—come not from within but from God. Paul thus assures Timothy that he is well-equipped to put his gift to use and to take his part in suffering adversity.​—2Ti 1:6, 8.