Fan Into Flame the Gift of God

Text: "That is why I remind you to fan into flame the gracious gift of God, [that inner fire—the special endowment] which is in you through the laying on of my hands [with those of the elders at your ordination]." (2 Timothy 1:6, AMP)

Introduction

The Apostle Paul, writing to his spiritual son Timothy, encourages him to stir up the gift of God within him. This exhortation is not just for Timothy but for every believer who has received a divine calling. God has deposited something powerful inside each of us—a gift, an anointing, a purpose. But like embers in a fire, if we do not tend to it, it can grow dim.

Today, we will explore:

1. The Nature of God’s Gift – What is this gift?

2. The Need to Fan It Into Flame – Why must we stir it up?

3. The Hindrances to the Flame – What quenches the fire?

4. How to Keep the Fire Burning – Practical steps to maintain spiritual passion.

1. The Nature of God’s Gift

Paul refers to a "gracious gift of God" (charisma) given to Timothy through the laying on of hands. This was likely a spiritual gift for ministry—perhaps preaching, teaching, leadership, or prophecy. But beyond Timothy, every believer has received something from God:

• Spiritual Gifts (1 Corinthians 12:7-11) – Wisdom, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment, tongues, interpretation.

• Natural Talents Enhanced by Grace – Skills used for God’s glory (Exodus 31:3 – Bezalel filled with the Spirit for craftsmanship).

• The Inner Fire of Calling – A divine burden, a holy discontent, a passion for God’s work.

This gift is gracious—not earned but given. It is powerful—capable of transforming lives. And it is personal—tailored to your assignment in the Kingdom.

Question: Have you identified your God-given gift? Are you using it for His glory?

2. The Need to Fan It Into Flame

Paul says, "Fan into flame…" Fire, if unattended, fades. Spiritual passion can grow cold due to neglect, discouragement, or sin.

Why Must We Stir It Up?

• Because Gifts Can Lie Dormant (1 Timothy 4:14) – Timothy needed reminding; so do we.

• Because the World Tries to Extinguish It – Persecution, distractions, and opposition seek to quench our zeal.

• Because the Harvest Demands It (Matthew 9:37-38) – Lost souls need the fire of God in us.

Illustration: A campfire left untended will eventually die. But when stirred, the embers ignite afresh. Similarly, we must intentionally cultivate our spiritual gifts through prayer, study, and obedience.

3. The Hindrances to the Flame

Why do many believers lose their spiritual fire?

A. Fear and Timidity (2 Timothy 1:7)

Timothy may have been shrinking back due to persecution. Fear paralyzes our gifts.

B. Neglect and Laziness

• Spiritual Sloth – Not praying, not reading the Word, skipping fellowship.

• Procrastination – Delaying obedience to God’s call.

C. Sin and Unrepentance

• Unconfessed sin blocks the flow of the Spirit (Psalm 66:18).

• Compromise with the world dampens passion.

D. Comparison and Discouragement

• Feeling "less gifted" than others can make us bury our talents (Matthew 25:25).

Question: What is suffocating your flame today? Fear? Busyness? Sin?

4. How to Keep the Fire Burning

How do we fan the flame?

A. Remember Your Calling (2 Timothy 1:6)

• Revisit your spiritual milestones—salvation, baptism, moments of anointing.

• Remember who commissioned you (God, not man).

B. Stay in the Word and Prayer

• The Word Fuels Fire (Jeremiah 20:9 – "His word was in my heart like a burning fire").

• Prayer Rekindles Passion (Jude 1:20 – "Pray in the Holy Spirit").

C. Step Out in Faith

• Use your gift, even if imperfectly.

• Like Peter walking on water, action sustains faith.

D. Surround Yourself with Fire-Carriers

• Paul mentored Timothy. Who is speaking into your life?

• Fellowship with passionate believers (Proverbs 27:17 – "Iron sharpens iron").

E. Guard Against Spiritual Drowsiness

• Avoid complacency (Revelation 3:15-16 – "Lukewarm").

• Stay alert (1 Peter 5:8).

Conclusion: A Call to Reignite

God has placed a fire in you—not for your glory, but for His Kingdom. Maybe yours has dwindled to embers. Today, He is saying:

• Stir it up! Pray like you mean it.

• Step out! Preach, teach, serve, give—do something.

• Stay close to the Fire-Giver! Abide in Christ (John 15:5).

Final Challenge:

• Identify one way you will fan your flame this week (e.g., recommit to prayer, join a ministry, repent of sin).

• Don’t let your gift die unused. The world needs your fire!

"Fan into flame the gift of God!" Let it burn brightly for Jesus.

Amen.