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The Gift of God

Paul goes on to say, “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” (2 Tm. 1:6 ESV).

All of us receive the gift of the Holy Spirit at salvation, and throughout our lifetime, we are given gifts to serve the Lord. For what reason do we need to fan into flame the gift of God?

What is Paul addressing gently but directly in 2 Timothy 1:7 ESV, ”For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control"? The Greek word “deilia,” translated “fear” in the English Standard Version, is the word for “timidity, fearfulness, and cowardice.” The better translation might actually be “cowardice.” Maybe Timothy gave Paul’s exhortation a little push back, saying something like, “I am just made this way,” or “This is too much for me—what you are asking is beyond me,” or “I’m too young and inexperienced—I’m doing the best I can and I can’t do any better.”

Paul’s words instruct us as well, “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control” (2 Tm. 1:7 ESV). Although we may feel like a coward and even be overwhelmed by the enormity of what the Lord is asking us to do, we must not go forth in our own strength. God is our strength, power, and love. God loves us as He loves Timothy. He has given us everything we need in Christ, including the power to control our emotions. By grace through faith, we are to access God’s power and make use of it. When we are weak, we are not to get overwhelmed, give up, or say, “This isn’t for me!” We must look to our Lord and put our faith and trust in His power.

Take the Truth to Heart

Look to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of your faith (Heb. 12:2), and choose one Scripture from 2 Timothy 1:1-7 that the Lord is using to renew your mind and transform your heart (Rom. 12:2). Note it in your note-taking app.

How is God using this Scripture to teach, instruct, reprove, correct, encourage, or train you (2 Tm. 3:16-17)? Record this and refer to it this week. Take God’s Word to heart. Submit to it. Remember God’s love in the gospel, your death with Christ, and His life in you.