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 God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.—2 Timothy 1:6–7
Have you ever tied a string around your finger to help you remember something important? It works because it creates mindfulness, prompting you to revisit the “something important.”
As a child of God, you were created for a plan and a purpose. That’s “something important” to remember as you aim to live a grounded life.
The enemy is scared of your God-given potential. He will try to convince you it’s not enough. His lies will paralyze you, but God’s truth sets you free. God empowers you with His Spirit to live out the plan and purpose He has called you to. Because the enemy sends thousands of reasons to be fearful through many avenues, it’s important to remind yourself what is true about God and what He has given you.
Paul told his friend Timothy to fan into flame the gifts God had given him. When you start a campfire, you need to tend to the fire. Fan the flame, add fuel, and the fire grows, burning bright. If you neglect it, it burns out quickly.
You will shine bright when you fan God’s gifts into flame. Tend to those gifts by reminding yourself of God’s truth, giving you the courage to live out your God-given potential. His power and His love are at work within you!
How can you remind yourself what is true about God and what He has given you? Maybe you don’t need to tie a string around your finger, but you could write the prayer below on a sticky note. Place it on your bathroom mirror so you are reminded first thing in the morning and at the end of the day before you head to bed!
God, thank You for saving me and calling me to a holy calling as a child of God. Remind me and empower me to fan into flame the gifts You have given to me. You have not given me a spirit of fear. You have given me a spirit of power and love and a sound mind. Thank You. Amen.