The Apostle Paul writes, 'I thank God, whom I serve, as my ancestors did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. 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.' (2 Timothy 1.3-6, NIV.)
Timothy’s mother and grandmother were early Christian converts, possibly through Paul’s ministry. They had communicated their strong Christian faith to Timothy, even though his father was probably not a believer. Our families are fertile ground for planting the seeds of the Gospel. Let your family know of your faith in Jesus, and be sure they see Christ’s love, helpfulness, and joy in you.
At the time of his ordination, Timothy had received special gifts of the spirit to serve the church. In telling Timothy to fan the flames, Paul was encouraging him to persevere. Timothy did not need new revelations or spiritual gifts. Rather, he needed the courage and self-discipline to use the gifts he had already received. Clearly Timothy’s spiritual gift had been given to him when Paul and the elders had laid their hands on him and set him apart for ministry. God gives all Christians gifts to use to build up the body of Christ, and He gives special gifts to some through church leaders, who serve as God’s instruments.
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 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. (2 Timothy 1:7-8, NIV)
Timothy was experiencing great opposition to his message and to himself as a leader. His youth, his association with Paul, and his leadership had come under fire from believers and nonbelievers alike. Paul urged him to be bold. When we allow people to intimidate us, we neutralise our effectiveness for God. The power of the Holy Spirit can help us overcome our fear of what some might say or do to us, so that we can continue to do God’s work.
Because of mounting persecution, Timothy may have been afraid to continue preaching the Good News. His fears were based on fact, because believers were being arrested and executed. Paul told Timothy to expect suffering. But Paul promised Timothy that God would give him strength and that he would be ready when it was his turn to suffer. Even when there is no persecution, it can be difficult to share our faith in Christ. Fortunately, we like Paul and Timothy, we can call on the Holy Spirit to give us courage.