1 Timothy 1:6-7

I prefer working alone. Working solo allows me to set my own pace, choose my own direction, and work out solutions that I am comfortable with. Life offers some opportunities for people that like to work alone, but most opportunities for real success involve teamwork and working well with others. No matter how loudly we sing, “I did it my way,” almost always our way involved the help of many others. The same is true in the life of a Christian. Theoretically, a Christian on an island with nobody but himself and God could be righteous. However we have to recognize that would be an abnormality not the normal. God did not reconcile us to himself in order that we could withdraw from the world and live in isolation. He reconciled us to himself in order that we might live righteous in the world. To do that we will need the help of the Holy Spirit.

Paul told Timothy that the Holy Spirit helps us be courageous, powerful, loving and self disciplined. However, the Holy Spirit does not assume control over our decision-making process and our lifestyle choices. Paul reminded Timothy that he had a responsibility to fan the flames of the gift that God had given him. When we look at the gifts God gives, we see that they help Christians, and they help Christians help the world. That does not happen automatically or accidentally; it requires us to intentionally use the gifts God has given us. Fanning the flame means that we sometimes have to make an extra effort to be productive in the kingdom. Work in God’s kingdom is much like work in the world in that aspect. Sometimes we have to motivate ourselves to get up and go to work.

Timothy did not need motivation to remain faithful, he needed motivation to remain active and there is a difference. When we get old, tired or sick the flames may lie low. We must fan them, there is still work we can do.