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The following blog is a summary of a message preached by Pastor Eddie Lawrence.

Watch the Sermon HERE!

In times of difficulty, fear, or spiritual dryness, we often need to be reminded of the powerful gifts God has already placed within us. Paul's letter to Timothy offers profound insight into how we can rekindle the spiritual fire that may have dimmed to mere embers in our lives.

What Does It Mean to "Stir Up" God's Gift?

The apostle Paul writes to Timothy, "Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands" (2 Timothy 1:6). The Greek word for "stir up" literally means to fan a flame or rekindle a fire. This imagery suggests that the spiritual gift isn't absent—it's present but may need to be awakened and energized.

Just as embers can remain hot for days and burst into flame when stirred, the gifts God has placed within us remain available even when they seem dormant. We don't need to ask God for something new; we need to activate what He has already given us.

Why Do We Need to Fan the Flame?

To Honor Those Who Invested in Us

Paul reminds Timothy of the genuine faith that lived in his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice. Our spiritual gifts aren't just for us—they honor the legacy of those who poured into our lives. Whether you're a first-generation believer or come from a long line of faith, you have the opportunity to steward well what has been passed down or to begin a new legacy for future generations.

To Unleash the Power You Already Possess

Sometimes we pray for God to do something when He has already equipped us with the answer through the gifts within us. You have the gift of salvation, the gift of the Holy Spirit, and access to spiritual gifts that can manifest in everyday situations—at work, in the grocery store, or during family gatherings.

Many believers possess gifts they don't even recognize. These gifts may have been present for years but went unnoticed due to lack of understanding or context. The key is learning to recognize and activate what God has already placed within you.

To Overcome Fear and Timidity

Paul immediately follows his instruction to stir up gifts with the reminder that "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind" (2 Timothy 1:7). Fear is often the primary obstacle preventing us from operating in our gifts.

Fear hinders the flow of God's power in our lives because it prevents us from stepping out in faith. It affects our ability to give and receive love and creates confusion about God's will. When we fan the flame of our gifts, we're choosing courage over fear and boldness over timidity.

To Stand Unashamed of Jesus and His People

Paul encourages Timothy not to be ashamed of the testimony of the Lord or of Paul himself, even though Paul was imprisoned. In our culture, there can be pressure to downplay our faith or distance ourselves from certain aspects of Christianity that seem unpopular or controversial.

Fanning the flame means boldly proclaiming Jesus as the anchor of our lives and being unashamed of the supernatural elements of our faith, including spiritual gifts, miracles, and the power of God.

How Do We Fan the Flame?

Embrace Your Holy Calling

God has called you with a holy calling according to His purpose and grace, which was given to you in Christ Jesus before time began (2 Timothy 1:9). You are God's idea, and He has a specific purpose for your life. This calling isn't based on your works or worthiness but on His sovereign choice and grace.

Hold Fast to Sound Teaching

Paul instructs Timothy to "hold fast the pattern of sound words" in faith and love. There is spiritual warfare around God's Word, and the enemy wants to steal it from you because he knows its power. Like a seed that needs protection and cultivation to grow, God's Word must be guarded, meditated upon, and applied to produce fruit in your life.

Depend on the Holy Spirit's Power

The final instruction is to keep "that good thing which was committed to you...by the Holy Spirit who dwells in us." The Holy Spirit is your helper in every area of life. He works in partnership with God's Word to bring about dynamic, creative results.

The Holy Spirit will help you practically—in your marriage, your relationships, your work, and your spiritual growth. Whatever area you need help in, He is available to assist you.

What Gifts Need Stirring?

Consider what gifts might be lying dormant in your life:

  • Spiritual gifts like words of knowledge, healing, or prophecy
  • Natural talents that can be used for God's kingdom
  • The gift of encouragement, hospitality, or service
  • Leadership abilities or teaching gifts
  • Creative expressions that can glorify God

 

These gifts aren't primarily for church settings—they're meant to be used in your everyday interactions with people who need to encounter God's love and power.

Life Application

This week, commit to actively stirring up the gifts God has placed within you. Instead of waiting for God to do something new, ask Him to show you what He has already given you that needs to be activated. Step out in faith, even if it feels uncomfortable or unfamiliar.

Consider these questions as you apply this message:

  • What gifts or callings have I allowed to grow cold due to fear, discouragement, or neglect?
  • How can I honor those who invested in my spiritual development by using my gifts more boldly?
  • What specific area of my life needs the Holy Spirit's help, and how can I partner with Him more intentionally?
  • Where is God calling me to be unashamed of my faith and step out in courage?

 

Remember, you don't need more from God—you need to activate what He has already given you. The fire is there; it just needs to be fanned into flame.