Paul writes to Timothy as his own life is coming to an end. Timothy was a fearful young leader who was facing many obstacles; by human standards, he was hopelessly unfit for this line of work. Every believer in Christ can identify with Timothy in being unable to effectively serve God of their own effort. Christian workers can have confidence despite everything because of what God has given us: power, knowledge of His Will, calling of us into ministry, and His Spirit in us.