In many ways, this mirrors the gifts of God within us. They are powerful, purposeful, and capable of transforming lives, yet they can grow dim if left unattended. Sometimes, discouragement, fear, or complacency can cause these gifts to lie dormant. But just as a fire needs to be stirred and fed to burn brightly again, so too must we actively nurture and use the gifts God has placed within us.

The apostle Paul, writing to Timothy, charged him to “fan into flame the gift of God”:

2 Timothy 1:6
New King James Version

6 Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.

This exhortation was not only for Timothy; it’s a call for all believers. Today, we will explore how to awaken and fan into flame the gifts of God that may have gone dormant in our lives.

Every believer has been endowed with spiritual gifts through the Holy Spirit. These gifts are not earned or based on merit but are graciously given by God as a manifestation of His Spirit. Paul writes:

1 Corinthians 12:7
New King James Version

7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all.

The Holy Spirit is the source of these gifts. They were imparted when we became new creations in Christ. Just as a seed is planted in fertile soil, spiritual gifts were planted in us to grow and bear fruit for God’s glory.

We need to understand that spiritual gifts are not exclusive to a select few. They are given to every believer without exception!!

These gifts are not meant to be hidden or neglected. They are tools for ministry, avenues through which we serve God and bless others. When we use our gifts, we align ourselves with God’s will.

Neglecting our gifts not only robs us of the joy of fulfilling our purpose but also diminishes the impact we are meant to have on those around us. Like the servant who buried his talent (Matthew 25:18), we risk losing what we fail to steward.

Rekindling the gifts of God requires intentional action. Prayer is the breath that fans the flame of our spiritual gifts. It aligns us with God’s will and rekindles our passion for His purposes. James reminds us:

James 5:16
New King James Version

16 The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.

As we pray, we invite the Holy Spirit to reignite the fire within us, to awaken dormant gifts, and to give us wisdom on how to use them effectively. Practicing the gifts is another crucial step. Like any skill, spiritual gifts grow stronger with use. Paul’s words to Timothy underscore this principle:

1 Timothy 4:14-15
New King James Version

14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership.

15 Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.

Consistent practice, even in small ways, helps us grow in confidence and effectiveness. Daily reading the Word of God and surrounding ourselves with a community of believers provides the support and accountability we need to grow in our gifts. The Word equips us for every good work (2 Timothy 3:17), while fellow believers encourage and sharpen us.

Overcoming fear and timidity is also essential. Paul’s charge to Timothy to fan into flame his gift was accompanied by a reminder:

2 Timothy 1:7
New King James Version

7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

Fear often stifles our gifts. We must reject timidity and embrace the power, love, and sound mind that God provides. When we step out in faith, God meets us with His strength.

Just as fire requires tending to burn brightly, so do the gifts of God within us. These gifts were given by the Spirit, bestowed upon all believers, and are meant to be used for God’s glory and the benefit of others. By praying, practicing, engaging with God’s Word, and overcoming fear, we can fan into flame the gifts that have grown dormant.

Do not let your gifts lie idle. Stir them up!!

Prayer Point:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gifts You have placed within me. Help me to recognize and rekindle them for Your glory.