(reworked from 2020)
SCRIPTURE: 2Timothy (NIV) 1:6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
OBSERVATION: This word that Paul writes to young Timothy is a good word for the church today, especially for senior citizens, like me, soon to be 77. It is our responsibility to “fan into flame,” or as the King James says, “stir up the gift.” We must keep the gift of God activated in our lives.
Some people think that they need a special recognized position to use their ministry gift. Every one of us already have that position: it is called “servant.” A true servant does not need recognition, or position, or salary to use God’s gift to benefit the church.
APPLICATION: Keeping the “gift of God” active in my life is my responsibility. I should not need a pastor or evangelist to fan into flame the gift God has given me. I should not need to go to a church service to have the “gift of God” stirred in my life; I should go to church with the gift already stirred in my life.
By daily reading the scriptures, by consciously walking and talking with the Lord about everything around me, by recognizing and acknowledging His presence, by special times of prayer, by praying without ceasing, by singing His praise throughout the day—by doing these I build a continual awareness of His presence. In His Presence, the gifts are kept simmering on the fire. They stay hot and ready for use.
PRAYER: Holy Spirit, your gifts active in my life make me a useful servant. What a shame it would be if no one benefited from the gifts you have given me. Help me keep the gifts active in my life. Amen
Pastor Leon
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