Fw: embers of faith

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: Rob Smith <toanosmith@yahoo.com>
To: Rob Smith <rsmith@mycwa.com>
Sent: Tuesday, January 10, 2017 7:37 AM
Subject: embers of faith

2 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."

-

Paul is writing to the younger disciple, Timothy, and encouraging him to move out in faith.  I think the picture of hot coals being fanned into flame is an appropriate picture as we are experiencing very cold temperatures the last several days.  There is something about a wood fire in a stove or fireplace that warms visually as well as physically.  If there are hot embers remaining within the stove it is easier to kindle back to a roaring fire.

-

You may feel as though the faith fire in your life is out...but be encouraged because the Holy Spirit is the best example of a hot coal.  He dwells in the heart of everyone who has trusted in Jesus for salvation.  And, just like Timothy, we can "fan into flame" the fire of the Spirit through the unique gifts given us.  We might consider what the things are that are being fanned right now because something gets the center of our energy every day.  Paul goes on to exhort Timothy not to be ashamed of the gospel but to remember that Christ was not ashamed to suffer on our behalf and defeat death.  Paul also describes this glowing ember as the "good deposit" of the Holy Spirit which has been entrusted to Timothy.

-

Glowing coal and good deposit...the Lord has placed Himself within and seeks to become the burning fire in our lives that can warm others as well.

-

blessings,

Rob Smith