Tag: spirit of power
Fan your Gift into Flame!
Scripture reading for October 3rd: 2nd Timothy 1
Key Scriptures for over-comers: 2nd Timothy 1:6-10 “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. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me His prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the Gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life–not because of anything we have done but because of His own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel.”
Paul encouraged Timothy and us to fan our gift into full flame! The Holy Spirit is not timid but bold, loving, and disciplined to accomplish God’s will by using us and the gifts of the Spirit given us by God’s grace. We may face suffering and even death, but Jesus Christ has destroyed death and brought immortality to light for us who know Him and have believed!
Observations for over-comers: Over-comers purposefully develop the gifts God has given them for His glory and purpose and boldly live and preach the Gospel of God’s grace in Jesus Christ. “I will bow down toward Your holy temple and will praise Your Name for your love and Your faithfulness, for You have exalted above all things Your Name and Your Word. When I called, You answered me; You made me bold and stouthearted.” (Psalm 138:2-3)
Preach the Word!
Scripture reading for December 8th: 2 Timothy 1-4
The second letter of Paul to Timothy is widely believed to be the last written by the Apostle before his execution in Rome. His final words of encouragement to this young man should also be encouraging to us. We can easily be overcome by fear at the events unfolding around us.
“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. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:6-7) Timothy came from good stock. His mother and grandmother were both Jewish believers in Jesus Christ. They were not timid but were filled with power and love because of their personal knowledge of God. Paul had sensed the call of God on Timothy and had prayed over him for God’s gifts. Timothy’s gift was that of pastor and teacher.
“In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life will be persecuted, while evil men and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:12-17) Paul warned Timothy of coming persecution and deception. The best life strategy was applying the word of God in daily living and ministry.
“In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead and in view of His appearing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage–with great patience and careful instruction.” (2nd Timothy 4:1-2) Paul gave Timothy a simple charge: “Preach the Word.” The Word is always in season. It should be used to correct people, to rebuke those in known sin and to prepare for Christ’s coming. Take this simple charge to your heart today and let it move you to action! It’s the season to listen to reason!