There are a number of letters written by Paul (and others) in the bible. Some are written to whole cities/churches, and others are written to individuals. I want to take a quick look at one written to Timothy, a young man that Paul was imparting advice to so that he could lead with confidence and assurance.
Paul writes 2 letters to Timothy (or at least, there are 2 letters to Timothy in the bible. There may have been more, but only 2 have survived with enough credibility to be included). The bit I want to look at is at the beginning of the second letter.
“I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. 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: 5-7)
First point: the people around us are important. As I’ve said previously, they don’t get to label us or dictate who we are (that’s God’s job) but they do get to set and example to us. I have had a number of good people around me who have pointed and continue to point me to God, who encourage me to trust and let faith speak louder than fear, and who patiently teach a (sometimes stubborn) student what it means to live and grow in Christ. The people around us are a legitimate part of the journey. They will walk alongside, pray, give advice and encourage.
Second point: even back in the day, people needed encouragement. Ever doubted yourself? Ever looked at the people around you and thought they had more to offer than you? Ever been hesitant to offer what skills and talents you have for any reason? So did Timothy. He had great role models, and still needed some extra encouragement to step out and use what he had. So if that’s you too, you’re not alone. But as Paul says to Timothy, the Spirit does not make us timid, but instead gives us the ability to be bold and use those gifts.
God’s gifts are not meant to be hidden, but neither are we supposed to step out alone. God promises to always be with us. Jesus says that God will send his Spirit to us. When we trust in that Spirit, we can use the gifts without fear. And when we are in doubt of that, those trusted people around us can help point us back to God.
“Fan into flame the gift of God” – what gifts has God given to you?
The Reason for my Hope Blog 