Teaching summary
In this powerful sermon, Pastor Leonard Rola shares a personal testimony about overcoming fear and walking in the power of God’s love. He emphasizes that fear is not from God, but rather, He has given believers a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. Pastor Rola discusses the necessity of "stirring up" the gifts God has given us, explaining that faith is energized through love. He encourages listeners to guard their minds and hearts, recognizing their authority in Christ and standing firm in their faith.
Bible verses referenced
2 Timothy 1:7 – "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, love, and of a sound mind."
2 Timothy 1:6 – "Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands."
Romans 5:5 – "And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us."
Galatians 4:6 – "And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father."
1 Corinthians 13:13 – "And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity."
Ephesians 4:23 – "And be renewed in the spirit of your mind."
Romans 12:2 – "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."
Colossians 3:2 – "Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth."
Teaching notes
Stir It Up – A Sermon
Table of Contents
- Introduction: A Personal Testimony of Overcoming Fear
- The Spirit of Fear vs. The Spirit of Power
- Stirring Up the Gift Within
- The Power of Love and Faith
- Renewing the Mind: Keeping Fear Under Our Feet
- Faith Energized by Love
- Communion: Remembering His Love
- Closing Prayer and Blessing
Introduction: A Personal Testimony of Overcoming Fear
Pastor Leonard Rola begins by expressing gratitude and worship toward God, acknowledging His unwavering love. He shares a personal testimony of how he used to struggle with intense fear, to the point where he would sleep with the lights and TV on, even keeping a weapon nearby. He attributes this fear to religious teachings that have given the enemy more power than he has. However, through revelation and faith, he realized that fear has no place in the life of a believer.
The Spirit of Fear vs. The Spirit of Power
Pastor Rola highlights 2 Timothy 1:7, stating:
"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, love, and a sound mind." He explains that God has given believers a "fear extinguisher"—the power of the Holy Spirit—to eliminate fear. Fear can weaken the body, deplete the immune system, and lead to sickness. However, by trusting in God's promises, believers can walk in victory over fear and anxiety.
Stirring Up the Gift Within
Pastor Rola points to 2 Timothy 1:6, which says:
"Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands." He explains that while God has given believers power, it is up to them to "stir it up"—to activate and use what has already been given. He likens it to having a car filled with gas but never using the keys to drive it. The power is there, but it must be used.
The Power of Love and Faith
Referencing 1 Corinthians 13:13, Pastor Rola emphasizes:
"And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity." He explains that God’s love is unconditional and committed, demonstrated through the sacrifice of Jesus. Love is the foundation that strengthens faith and eliminates fear.
Renewing the Mind: Keeping Fear Under Our Feet
Quoting Romans 12:2, Pastor Rola reminds listeners:
"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." He warns that fear rises into the mind when believers focus on what they see and hear rather than on God’s promises. To maintain victory, they must keep fear "under their feet" and fix their minds on heavenly things (Colossians 3:2).
Faith Energized by Love
Pastor Rola references Galatians 5:6, explaining that faith is activated through love.
"For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. When believers grow in the understanding of God's love, it naturally rebounds into a deeper love for Him. In that exchange, faith is released and strengthened.
Communion: Remembering His Love
As part of the service, Pastor Rola leads the congregation in communion, emphasizing that it is an act of remembering and celebrating God's love. He reads from Romans 5:5: "And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us." He explains that through Jesus’ sacrifice, believers are not only forgiven but perpetually kept clean by His blood.
Closing Prayer and Blessing
Pastor Rola concludes with a prayer of gratitude and blessing, declaring:
"We put Satan, we put the enemy, we put enemy thinking back under our feet and we keep it there. We live in Your belief, Father, thanking You and praising You for all that You have done and all that You have given." He prays for healing, wholeness, and the anointing of the Holy Spirit over all who are listening, reaffirming God's promises and love for His people.
We hope this article blessed you. If this message has impacted you, share it with others and continue stirring up the gift of God within you. May you walk in His power, love, and a sound mind. Amen!