Stir Up the Gift
Stir up the gift of God, which is in thee…for God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. (2 Tim 1:6-7)
There are times when the walk of faith is more difficult than others. I have days that are filled with pressures, problems and pitfalls that so press me to the point of being overwhelmed with disappointments and discouragements. Under enough pressure and fatigue from disappointments, the passion I once had for things begin to fade and wane. And if allowed with time, my thoughts are daunted with fears of failure and fall into greater disappointments. The scripture before us today reminds us of the gift that God has given to each child of God. “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear.” God has empowered each believer with power from on high, filled with His love and full of truth. He empowers us with His presence from the moment that we confess, believe, and receive salvation through Jesus Christ, each believer is given the spirit “of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” The Holy Spirit is present and available to be accessed by faith. Paul taught Timothy in these scriptures how to access the gift with in him and stay strong, not loose heart nor become timid. In 2 Timothy 1:3-14, we find counsel to in God’s word to be refreshed and renewed with passionate faith in Jesus Christ and live victoriously over the spirit of fear. First, refresh your memory. “Stir up the gift of God” in your “remembrance” (vs.3-6) and acknowledge your difficulties to God. Second, renew your strength in the Lord. Build your faith on the word of God, praise Him and worship Him, exercise your spiritual gifts, and fellowship with believers who encourage you (vs.7-14). Finally, repent of any sin, admit that you need Him and want to live in a manner that pleases Him. My friend, difficulties and disappointments are sure to come, but be of good cheer, for Christ has overcome the world along with every trial and tribulation that we may face. Through Him, we can conquer the fear of failure and be renewed in our spirit to live passionately and victoriously through “Christ who strengthens me” (Phil 4:13). Father, thank You for the hope of salvation and the help of your indwelling Holy Spirit. Refresh and renew Your gift in me today that Your light will so shine to a world that desperately needs You. In the blessed Name of Jesus. Amen.