Fan the Flame

Throughout scripture, fire often represents the presence and power of God. From Moses’ encounter with the burning bush to the tongues of fire at Pentecost, one truth remains constant: there is no power of God without the presence of God.

In his letter to Timothy (2 Timothy 1:1-8), Paul encourages his young protégé to “fan into flame the gift of God.” This powerful metaphor serves as a reminder that our spiritual fire needs constant attention and care. But what does it mean to “fan the flame” in our daily lives?

The Ancient Pattern of the Altar Fire

In Leviticus 6, we find God’s instructions to the priests regarding the burnt offerings. These ancient practices reveal four crucial principles for maintaining our spiritual fire today:

1. Keep the Fire Burning

The priests were commanded to keep the altar fire burning continuously—it was never to go out. Similarly, we must constantly tend to our spiritual life. This isn’t the responsibility of our pastors, small group leaders, or family members—it’s our personal responsibility to maintain that connection with God’s presence.

2. Remove the Ashes

The priests had to regularly clean away the ashes from consumed sacrifices. These ashes represent our past—both victories and struggles. If we’re not careful, the residue of our past can suffocate our present spiritual fire. We must fully release what God has already refined in us, preventing old struggles from becoming present obstacles.

3. Continually Fuel the Fire

Just as the priests added new firewood every morning, we need daily spiritual nourishment. This comes through:

  • Regular engagement with God’s Word
  • Consistent prayer life
  • Fellowship with other believers
  • Active participation in ministry

Remember: you can’t sustain a spiritual fire on Sunday services alone. Daily spiritual disciplines produce daily spiritual victories.

4. Position Yourself on the Altar

In the end, we are the offering. As Romans 12:1 reminds us, we’re called to be “living sacrifices.” This means daily surrendering ourselves to God’s refining fire. As King David said, “I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing” (2 Samuel 24:24).

Making It Personal

Many believers want God’s power while disregarding His presence. We seek relationship without results. But true spiritual effectiveness comes when we maintain both the presence and power of God in our lives.

To fan the flame effectively:

  • Surround yourself with people who encourage your spiritual growth
  • Immerse yourself in Scripture
  • Maintain an active prayer life
  • Engage in community through small groups
  • Serve in your local church

Remember, we’re not called to live our lives simply following Jesus—we’re called to live with His power working through us. When we tend to the flame of God’s presence in our lives, we become effective witnesses of His power and love to the world around us.

Are you tending to your spiritual fire today?

“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” – 2 Timothy 1:7