Why is it important to remember the "gift of God" within us? Setting the Scene “ 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.” — 2 Timothy 1:6 Paul’s words to Timothy are more than a personal note; they are a call to every believer to remember, rekindle, and rely on what God has already placed within us. What Is the "gift of God"? • The Holy Spirit’s empowering presence (Acts 2:38; 2 Timothy 1:14) • Spiritual abilities granted for ministry (1 Corinthians 12:4-11) • The deposit of eternal life itself (Ephesians 2:8-9; 1 John 5:11) Why Remembering Matters • Keeps our focus on God’s sufficiency, not our own effort (2 Corinthians 3:5) • Guards us against drifting into fear or apathy—“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7) • Fuels perseverance in hardship; Paul wrote these words from prison, yet emphasized God’s inner provision (2 Timothy 2:1) • Enables joyful service, because “each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another” (1 Peter 4:10) Signs We’re Forgetting the Gift • Prayer life dries up—relying on flesh rather than Spirit (Galatians 3:3) • Ministry becomes mechanical—duties replace delight (Revelation 2:4) • Fear overrides faith—hesitation where boldness once stood (Proverbs 29:25) • Comparison and envy surface—forgetting unique grace given to us (Romans 12:6) What Happens When We Fan the Flame • Fresh courage: “The righteous are as bold as a lion.” (Proverbs 28:1) • Growing love for people and for God (Galatians 5:22-23) • Clarity of calling—“We have different gifts according to the grace given us.” (Romans 12:6) • Fruitful witness—“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you.” (Acts 1:8) Practical Ways to Keep the Gift Alive 1. Daily Scripture intake—stoke truth that fuels faith (Jeremiah 15:16). 2. Prayerful dependence—invite the Spirit’s fresh filling (Ephesians 5:18). 3. Active service—gifts grow when exercised (1 Timothy 4:14-15). 4. Fellowship and accountability—others help us stay aflame (Hebrews 10:24-25). 5. Gratitude—regularly thank God for what He’s deposited (2 Corinthians 4:7, 15). Encouragement from Other Passages • Philippians 2:13 — “for it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose.” • 2 Corinthians 9:15 — “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” • Jude 20-21 — “building yourselves up in your most holy faith… keep yourselves in the love of God.” Living It Out Remembering the "gift of God" is not a one-time event; it is a daily choice to acknowledge, appreciate, and activate what He has already placed within us. When we do, the flame grows, fear fades, and the world sees Christ in us—the hope of glory. |
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