Are you on fire for God? Or has the energy, power, and joy you once felt when serving God gone? Revive the passion you once felt. Dr. Stanley, explains the wise counsel the apostle Paul gave to Timothy about keeping the enthusiasm and love for his ministry vibrant.
Sermon Outline
Serving God with passion and purpose brings about joyful satisfaction. That’s why we must tend to our heart to ensure our desire for the Lord doesn’t waver or grow dim. Today, Dr. Stanley addresses this serious spiritual condition, which can affect any believer.
Key Passage: 2 Timothy 1:3-7
Supporting Passages: Ephesians 5:18; 1 Timothy 4:14-15; 1 Timothy 6:20
Paul saw a need in young Timothy and was prompted to write him with some urgent reminders. They are essential for us as well.
► “Either we walk obediently before God or something happens to the flame in our heart.”
Things to understand about our heart for the Lord:
A changed attitude is enough to extinguish the flame of our passion for God. (It doesn’t always take major sin or lost faith.)
Our flame is a gift, but we must not neglect it (1 Tim. 4:14-15).
We must guard our calling as something the Lord has entrusted to us (6:20).
The culture was ungodly, and there was no New Testament for Timothy to rely on. So Paul …
Reminded Timothy of his love (2 Tim. 1:3-4)—Paul’s prayers and longing to see Timothy showed his care for the young man.
Expressed his confidence in Timothy (v. 5)—Paul acknowledged the faith he saw in Timothy.
Referred to the young man’s family heritage (v. 5)—The wisdom gained from Timothy’s mother and grandmother was a rich legacy that would strengthen his resolve.
Affirmed the divine call on Timothy’s life (v. 6)—Paul reminded his protégé to fan into flame afresh the gift of God within him.
What are some signs that the flame may be flickering?
Recycling old lessons instead of seeking fresh truth from God.
Losing the thrill of discovering something new in Scripture.
Becoming discouraged by circumstances and problems.
Losing sight of your calling.
► “God, stir the soul of thy servant. Stir my heart. Work in my life.”
How do we rekindle the flame?
Seek the Holy Spirit (Eph. 5:18)—Examine your life and repent of anything that grieves Him.
Review the past—Look at what was happening in your life when the flame was burning brightly, and return to those habits and activities.
Refocus attention on God—Love Jesus Himself, not just the success you experience in serving Him.
Reject Satan’s lies—Don’t believe his discouraging whispers.
Renew your fellowship with God—Spend time alone with the Lord and allow Him to stir your soul.
Return to work with full commitment—Don’t let circumstances pull you away from what God has called you to do.
After Watching
What gifts has God given you so you can minister to others? What is your calling from Him?
A visual token can be an effective cue to recall spiritual truths, such as the importance of keeping the flame of faith lit. The reminder could be a Bible verse on the refrigerator or even a battery-powered candle in a central place in your home. Each time you see your object, offer up a short prayer to God: Lord, let my life reflect Your love and light to others. In Jesus’ name, amen.
