Christian Writers Circle

Fan into Flame the Gift of God

by Brenda D. Flowers

2 Timothy1: 1-3, 6-9  Amplified Bible

1 Paul, an apostle (special messenger, personally chosen representative) of Christ Jesus (the Messiah, the Anointed) by the will of God, according to the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus, 

2 to Timothy, my beloved son:  Grace, mercy, and peace (inner calm and spiritual well-being)  from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 

3 I thank God, whom I worship and serve with a clear conscience the way my forefathers did, as  I constantly remember you in my prayers night and day, …6 That is why I remind you to fan into flame the gracious gift of God, (that inner fire—the special endowment) which is in you through the laying on of my hands (with those of the elders at your ordination). 7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but (He has given us a spirit) of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline (abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control). 

8 So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord or about me His prisoner, but with me take your share of suffering for the gospel (continue to preach regardless of the circumstances ), in accordance with the power of God (for His power is invincible), 9 For He delivered us and saved us and called us with a holy calling (a calling that leads to a consecrated life— life set apart—a life of purpose), not because of our works (or because of any personal merit—we could do nothing to earn this), but because of His own purpose and grace (His amazing, undeserved favor) which was granted to us in Christ Jesus before the world began (eternal ages ago), … 

Recently this scripture passage spoke to me in a very personal way. I felt like God was telling me to read this letter aloud, putting my name in place of Timothy’s and receive His exhortation and encouragement to me. 

When the Apostle Paul wrote this letter to Timothy, he was in prison and knew his time on earth was short. He was intentional in the words he chose to beloved Timothy. Holy Spirit guided him in writing this exhortation, passing the baton of an empowered faith so to speak not only to Timothy, but to all of us who trust Jesus as Lord. We are all called to great purpose and we all must allow God to strengthen us in the face of difficult circumstances.

As followers of Christ, His Image-bearers, we are all challenged to live holy lives becoming more like Jesus each day. But the sanctification process is not to be done in our own strength. We are given God’s Spirit to empower us to change and to become who God created us to be. 

We are challenged to fan into flame the faith in the calling God has given us.

By faith, we are called to be sons and daughters of the King of kings…learning to trust and obey Him fully with our lives, even in the face of persecution or a harsh culture. 

Next time you read words of exhortation in the Bible, try substituting your name in the place of the believer receiving the challenge. Remember, our Lord (All Sufficient One…He who was and is and is to come) loves us so much He gives us His presence to complete us. 

All powerful Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith. We may feel timid in our flesh, but when we feel weak, He is strong. 

Share how God has strengthened and encouraged you. Let us rejoice together.