Faith, Fire, and Fear: Rising Up in the Power of God
This week at Myrtle House Community Church, we continued to build on the powerful truths shared in recent weeks. Martin O’Brien took us deeper into 2 Timothy 1:6-8, where Paul encourages Timothy to fan into flame the gift of God and reminds him that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
Paul’s words to Timothy are as relevant today as they were then. Timothy, though faithful and devoted, struggled with timidity. Yet, God still used him powerfully. His life reminds us that no matter who we are or where we come from, we can be strong and effective in Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Fire – Fan It into Flame
Paul stirs Timothy’s faith, urging him to rekindle the fire of God within him. Maybe your fire has dimmed, but the embers are still there. All it takes is fuel and oxygen—intentional time in God’s presence, stepping out in faith, and using the gifts He has given you—to ignite it again. When we actively seek the Holy Spirit, God breathes fresh fire into our lives.
Faith – Your Spiritual Heritage
Paul reminds Timothy of his genuine faith—a faith passed down from his mother and grandmother. Likewise, as believers, we are part of a great heritage in Christ. No matter our past, we have a destiny in Jesus, and we are called to live as people of faith.
Fear – The Fire-Dampener
Fear is one of the greatest threats to our faith and fire. It holds us back, makes us doubt, and can stop us from stepping into God’s calling. But Paul is clear—God has not given us a spirit of fear! Instead, we have been given power, love, and self-discipline. Fear may come, but it doesn’t have to rule us.
Why Does This Matter?
Paul ties it all together in verse 8—our faith and fire aren’t just for us. They exist so that we can boldly share the Gospel. We are empowered to proclaim the Good News of Jesus without shame, to stand firm in His truth, and to impact those around us.
Rise Up!
You are a person of faith and fire, not fear. You carry the breath of God within you. This is your heritage, your calling, and your future. So rise up! Fan the flame, push back fear, and boldly proclaim the name of Jesus today!
