DAILY READING
REFLECTION
FAN THE FLAMES
by Judy Webb
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7)
Do you know your Spiritual Gift? Have you known it for a long time because it happens to be an area you are passionate about? Has your gift changed your life, or the life of those around you? Do you speak enthusiastically when using this gift, and does it seem to light a fire in your spirit?
FEARSOME NOT TIMID: 2 Timothy 1:7 tells us that our gift will make us bold, not timid. We will not lack courage or be fearful when working within our gifting. We will sense God’s power as we maneuver this life using this special gift to lead others to know Jesus. Love and self-discipline will be our companions on this journey. God doesn’t want us to be shy with this gift(s), but to be strong and courageous.
POWER AND LOVE: Our love for Jesus and His word will stir us to move forward, always remembering this battle is the Lord’s. (2 Chronicles 20:17). Our unselfish and loyal affection for God and one another is the key to using our gifts as God intended; Never to build us up but to glorify God. The Holy Spirit supplies us with unlimited strength to love all we encounter. He never told us it would be easy, only that we will be able to stand firm in His power and grace.
SELF-DISCIPLINE: The Spirit will supply restraint and willpower when we ask for it. Certain situations will require us to call upon the Spirit to fan the flames of our gifting. We need to remember that we live in this world but don’t wage war as the world does. (2 Corinthians 10:3) We need discretion at our disposal, always facing situations with sober minds.
In this often-cold world, we cannot allow the fire of God’s love and good news to cool down. It is this fierce fire of love that warms us. Daily fan the flames of your faith and encourage others with your gift. Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us. (2 Timothy 1:14)
PRAYER
Dear Father,
Thank you for the Spiritual gifts you have given each of us. Teach us to use them for your glory. Be a Presence in each of our lives this week as we have opportunity to share our gifts with others. Amen.
