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Intention

God has given each believer spiritual gifts — our responsibility is to fan into flame the gifts He has given us and use them for the benefit of all.

Scripture

“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 the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” — 2 Timothy 1:6-7

Reflection

One of my chores growing up was to chop firewood and light our combustion heater. I quickly learned that starting a fire isn’t always easy. Even when you have a flame, it takes effort to keep it burning. You need to feed it, stoke it, and sometimes fan it back into flames when it dies down. Once the fire has been kindled, however, it is captivating to watch, and comforting for everyone nearby.

Paul used the imagery of a kindled fire when writing to Timothy. He reminded him to “fan into flames” the spiritual gift God had given him. Timothy wasn’t abandoning his faith, but he had grown hesitant, perhaps due to fear or insecurity. Paul’s words were a call to action — he needed to stir up his gift and use it boldly for the glory of God.

Every believer has been given spiritual gifts by the Holy Spirit. These gifts are not just for personal edification but for the benefit of the entire church. Yet, like any fire, they require tending. We can’t afford to let them smoulder. Whether it’s teaching, leading, serving, or encouraging, our gifts are meant to be used.

Too often, we assume that spiritual work is only for pastors or church leaders. But the church isn’t a one-man show — it’s a body, and each member has a role to play. Paul’s words to Timothy serve as a reminder for us, too: if our gifts have dimmed, it’s time to rekindle them.

Scripture lists a variety of spiritual gifts, each given for the common good of the church. Some are more visible, like teaching, pastoring, and leadership, while others work behind the scenes, such as administration, helping, and acts of mercy. Others are supernatural in nature, like prophecy, healings, and discernment. Regardless of the gift, each one is valuable in God’s kingdom. If you’re not sure what your gifts are, prayerfully consider where God has already used you to bless others. Recognising your gifts is the first step toward fanning them into flame.

Are you using your gifts? Are you actively serving in the capacity God has called you to? If not, don’t wait — fan the flame, step up, and trust that God will give you the power, love, and self-discipline to do His work.

Prayer

Father, thank You for the gifts You have placed in my life. Help me to recognise them and use them for Your glory. Reveal to me if I have grown weary or hesitant, and give me the courage to fan them back into flame. Strengthen me with Your Spirit so that I may serve others boldly and faithfully. Amen.

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