2 Timothy 1-4

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 self-discipline.

2 Timothy 4:5

But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.

Like Timothy, I have a family history of faith, passed down from my grandfather to my father to me. The challenge for me is not to take that for granted or rest on the laurels of the past. I need to take to heart this reminder from Paul to fan into flame the gift of God, to not let the flame die down, to take advantage of the generous gift of the Holy Spirit (as read about yesterday) which will empower me to be bold rather than timid.

Another translation the beginning of 2 Tim. 4:5 says "keep a clear mind" and another "be watchful in all things." Oh how easily I let my mind become cluttered by other things that avert my focus from Jesus. I need to be more watchful that distractions and, at times, hardships don't sidetrack me and keep me from discharging the duties of my ministry.

Ah, and just what is my ministry? I know I do love the small part I play in worship through music. And I recognize being a husband and father is also a place I minister. So for now that seems to be it. But I still feel there's something else, some other task I'm being prepared for. I just don't have any clarity on it yet. But I do know if I persist God will be faithful to guide my steps. So for now I read and pray and listen.