Nov 8. 2 Timothy 1. Mary Benton

Fan into Flame

I am always overwhelmed by Paul’s deep love for Timothy, and his unyielding confidence in him and his ability to carry on the message of the gospel. Paul looks beneath what he sees on the surface and encourages Timothy by showing him that he has everything that is needed to confidently carry on the work in Ephesus.

    In v. 6, he reminds Timothy to “fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.” This implies that the spiritual gifts we receive are not necessarily fully mature when we receive them. Our gifts and talents can grow! I have never really thought about this. What God has given me can be nurtured and fed, and ultimately grow into something stronger and more useful to him!

We can tend to compare ourselves to others when we see someone with more or different talents than our own, and we can minimize our own worth to God and to ourselves. We see what we are not, and forget that God has uniquely blessed each of us. Comparison is worthless - what God plans for each individual is customized to that person, and the gifts he has given us are specific to that plan. 

We need to take inventory in humility and honesty. What has God given us, and how can we use it and grow it for his glory? Are we sitting on talents that God needs us to share? Are we using these talents immaturely, when through prayer, faith, and study we can help them bloom? 

When we recognize and grow our gifts, we display our gratitude to God, and honor the faith that He has in us to carry on his work!