40 Days of Prayer – Day 17

“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, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control”.  2 Timothy 1:6-7

When we’re following God’s plan for our lives, it can be easy to become afraid because God often asks us to do things that feel bigger than we are. In verse six, Paul encouraged Timothy to “fan into flame the gift of God”. This is done by using our gifts, exercising them, stepping out in faith, and fulfilling the ministry and calling that God gives. Too often fear hinders us from doing these things and using the gifts God has given. This is not what He intends.  He hasn’t given us a fearful spirit, but a powerful one, filling us with courage as we walk in step with the Holy Spirit. The same is true thousands of years ago when God told Joshua “…for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9b). So today, whatever your fear looks like, know that it’s not from God. Whether you are fearful of dangers and difficulties, fearful of the reactions and opinions of others, or fearful for what the future may hold, remember that Christ is the only One we are called to fear appropriately.  Determine today to live fearlessly in love and self-control, by not allowing your fears to keep you from using your gifts and doing what God has called you to do! 

Junior Emma Linn

Prayer Focus:

• SCS Elementary School Principal & Team:  David Sutton
• Commit yourself to living by Psalm 40:8 “To do your will, O my God, is my desire.”
• Hebrews 10:24-25:  And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.