I was just reading the book of 2 Timothy and I read a verse that I’ve read many, many times but it struck me in a new way this morning. Writing to Timothy, Paul says this:
For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God
It struck me that Paul didn’t say the Holy Spirit will fan into flame the gift of God, but he told Timothy himself to do it. Whatever God has given us, He expects us to cultivate. Whatever gifting or talent He’s entrusted to us, even if it’s really small, we’re responsible for.
This is the last day of 2008 and I’ve been doing a self-evaluation of sorts and I realized that I’ve been border-lined lazy as of late. I’m kinda mad at myself but I also have a renewed drive for 2009. I’ve picked out a couple things that I’m going to invest more of my time in; I want to fan into flame a couple gifts that God has given me that are still in their infant state. At the end of the day, I know I’m responsible for them and I really don’t want to find out someday that I’ve wasted them.
Hi Dave,
Perfect time of year for reflection and focus. I try to reflect on both my accomplishments and my lack luster attempts. Your blog has energized me to look at several areas of focus including Faith, Relationships,
Work and Self. My list in each area began with doing more which seemed impossible. After prayer I realized the answer my be to do less but with greater presence. Feels like a great resolution offering greater presence, peace, joy and openness in all areas of my life. There are of course still a few to do’s but not so many. Thanks for your thoughts.
Peace
Lee
I like to think of this in terms of oxygen: inhaling and exhaling. Fire needs oxygen to burn. When we inhale the word of God, we exhale the breath of the Spirit and the fire burns brighter…
Dave,
I really appreciated your candid post. Its similar to something I have been pondering on as well.