Paul encouraged Timothy to be faithful in the ministry. He said in 2 Timothy 1:6-7, “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 did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of discipline.”
Timothy is valuable and useful in the ministry because “the gift of God” is in him. Somebody said, “human potential is almost limitless.” Everyone can be valuable and useful like Timothy. We just need to consider important principles.
1. Know your Gift
Timothy has particular ministry gifts, as we read chapters one and two. The gift of faith which mentioned by Paul in verse 5. He has also the gift of evangelism and teaching. Just like other biblical characters, Timothy dedicated his life to be of service to God.
In order to be used by God in the ministry, one needs to know the ministry gift God has given to him. It is an essential foundation to service and ministry.
2. Rely on God’s Power
Paul reminded Timothy to “fan into flame” the gift of God in his life. He also emphasized that the power of the Holy Spirit is active. Ministry and service to the Lord can turn out to be meaningless without the power of the Holy Spirit. Timothy must always rely on the power of the Holy Spirit.
In the context of the passage “power” is linked to witnesses and willingness to undergo suffering (1:8). The work of the Holy Spirit is an inner power that sustains, amidst suffering.
We can be useful in the ministry by allowing the Holy Spirit to empower us. After all, the ministry is meaningless if only done by mere human ability and effort.
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3. Serve with Love
Paul mentioned the word “love” as he continues to encourage Timothy to be faithful and useful in the ministry. There is a connection between love and service. God did not want Timothy to practice “timidity” but he should exercise love while doing the ministry.
To love God and to love others are basic principles, not only for Christian maturity but for service as well. Let us serve God and others with love.
4. Do it with Excellence
As Paul continues to encourage Timothy, he also emphasized “Self-discipline.” In many areas of life, self-discipline will lead to excellence. There are three metaphors Paul uses. Although these metaphors are in chapter 2, they are great illustrations concerning self-disciple.
There are three metaphors Paul uses. Although these metaphors are in chapter 2, they are great illustrations concerning self-disciple. The first is a good soldier – “Endure hardship with us like a good soldier” (2:3). The second one is an athlete – “competes as an athlete” (2:5). The third one is the hardworking farmer (2:6).
To be valuable and useful in the ministry is to practice self-discipline that will lead to an excellent accomplishment.