Scripture for Today: II Timothy 1:6 “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.”

In former times this antique bellow was a common sight in starting and maintaining a fire.  The flexible bag would expand with air entering through a valve.  The air would then be expelled through a tube.  As a result the fire would burn more brightly with the supply of air.  I was surprised to see the choices available today for this age-old tool.  As different as the styles may be, they all have in common that important flow of air helping the fire to burn.

Our verse for today is an encouragement from Paul to Timothy.  Paul took special interest in Timothy, considering him as a son.  Because he was convinced of his sincere faith, Paul urged him to fan into flame the Holy Spirit’s gifts already received.

Each believer is given a gift by the Holy Spirit (I Cor. 12:7) to be used in service to Him.  Sometimes though, that gift can be reduced to smoldering coals through neglect.  Life can seem so full and busy, we forget what we were given and why.  That flame can sometimes need fanning.  The Holy Spirit wants to breathe power, love and self-discipline on those coals, making us bold in our testimony and service (verse 7).  We cannot burn brightly for Him without the work of the Holy Spirit.  His Spirit is like those bellows, fanning into a flame the spiritual gift He has given us.

When the Holy Spirit is working through me, there is no chance of “burn out.”  He continually breathes His supply of power.  He accomplished in me so much more than I can ever do on my own.

Lord, keep me burning brightly today!