September 15, 2026 | Be Connected
Called to Fan the Flame
Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:6-10(NIV)
6 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. 7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 8 So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. 9 He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, 10 but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.
Devotional
According to the “2025 Chapman University Survey of American Fears,” the top fears in America include government corruption, health of loved ones, economic stability, cyber-terrorism, and a potential world war. Other fears just as powerful are fearing to speak in public or not being accepted by others. These fears can and often hinder people from living as God intended. Many seek help from various sources which often provide little or no help. But as Christians, we know the source we ought to seek: It is the Word of God.
In today’s passage, Paul admonishes young Timothy to “stir up the gift of God” without fear because God has not given His followers the “spirit of fear” but rather “power, love, and a sound mind” (vs. 6-7). He tells Timothy not to be ashamed or fearful to share the Gospel because God has promised to be with Him. God reminds Christians to “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through the fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior” (Isaiah 43: 1-3).
Like young Timothy, we face many trials and fears which drain our spirits and rob our joy of receiving the blessings and promises from God. Often, we overwhelm our lives with trivial concerns and worldly activities; we leave little time for prayer, Bible reading, and study. But when we pray and study God’s Word, we have God’s strength and power to share God’s Word with others. I know from my own personal experiences that life can be difficult, our trials may be numerous, and our hopes may be clouded for a while; but as we stand firm in our relationship with Christ, we can claim God’s promises, which bless “the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him” (James 1: 12).
God promises to be with us through all our trials and we don’t have to fear others or what lies ahead. We have God’s Word on it!
“When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie,
My grace, all sufficient, shall be thy supply;….
That soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake,
I’ll never, no never, no, never forsake.” (John Rippon)
