Stirring Up The Gifts Of God Series

STIRRING UP THE GIFTS OF GOD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 2 Timothy 1:6

"Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands."

Supporting Texts: Romans 12:6-8, 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Peter 4:10, Proverbs 18:16

INTRODUCTION

God has deposited spiritual gifts in every believer for the purpose of edifying the church and advancing His kingdom. However, these gifts do not automatically function on their own; they must be stirred up, nurtured, and utilised.

Paul exhorted Timothy to stir up the gift of God in him, indicating that spiritual gifts can become dormant due to fear, neglect, or complacency. Many Christians have untapped potential, and unless they take intentional steps to develop and use their God-given abilities, they may never fulfil their divine purpose. This sermon will explore how to stir up the gifts of God and maximise their impact.

1. UNDERSTANDING THE GIFTS OF GOD

Spiritual gifts are divine abilities given by God for service and edification.

a) Gifts are given by God’s grace – They are not earned but bestowed (Romans 12:6).

b) Gifts differ from natural talents – Spiritual gifts operate through the anointing (1 Corinthians 12:4-6).

c) Every believer has a gift – No one in the body of Christ is without a divine deposit (1 Peter 4:10).

d) Gifts are meant for the benefit of others – They are not for self-exaltation but for the edification of the church (1 Corinthians 12:7).

e) Biblical Example: The Parable of the Talents – The servant who buried his talent was rebuked for not using it (Matthew 25:14-30).

2. WHY GIFTS BECOME DORMANT

Many believers fail to operate in their gifts due to various reasons.

a) Fear and timidity – Many hesitate to use their gifts due to fear of failure (2 Timothy 1:7).

b) Lack of spiritual growth – A weak spiritual life hinders the manifestation of gifts (Hebrews 5:12-14).

c) Neglect and complacency – Gifts that are not exercised become inactive (1 Timothy 4:14).

d) Discouragement and opposition – Criticism and challenges can cause people to withdraw (Jeremiah 1:6-8).

e) Biblical Example: Timothy – Paul had to remind Timothy to stir up his gift, implying that he was becoming passive (2 Timothy 1:6).

3. HOW TO STIR UP THE GIFTS OF GOD

Spiritual gifts must be intentionally developed and put to use.

a) Pray for fresh fire and boldness – The Holy Spirit empowers believers to operate in their gifts (Acts 4:31).

b) Step out in faith – Gifts grow stronger through use (Romans 12:6).

c) Seek mentorship and guidance – Spiritual leaders can help refine and activate gifts (1 Samuel 3:8-10).

d) Serve actively in the body of Christ – Engaging in ministry creates opportunities for gifts to manifest (1 Corinthians 15:58).

e) Biblical Example: Elisha – He received and activated his prophetic gift after following Elijah closely (2 Kings 2:9-15).

4. THE IMPACT OF A STIRRED-UP GIFT

A believer who fully utilises their spiritual gifts will make a lasting impact.

a) Empowers you for effective service – Stirred gifts make ministry impactful (Acts 6:8).

b) Brings spiritual growth and maturity – Exercising gifts leads to greater anointing (Hebrews 5:14).

c) Expands God’s kingdom – When gifts are used, souls are won, and the church grows (Acts 2:41).

d) Opens doors of favour and opportunities – A well-utilised gift makes room for a person (Proverbs 18:16).

e) Biblical Example: David – His skill in playing the harp opened the door for him to serve in the king’s palace (1 Samuel 16:17-21).

CONCLUSION

God has deposited unique gifts in every believer, but these gifts must be stirred up and used for His glory. If we neglect them, we risk spiritual stagnation and missing out on divine opportunities. Paul’s charge to Timothy is relevant to us today: we must fan the flames of our spiritual gifts and walk boldly in our calling. What gift has God placed in you? It’s time to activate it and make an impact for His kingdom.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, reveal and activate every dormant gift in my life.

2. Father, give me the boldness to step out in faith and use my gifts.

3. Holy Spirit, empower me with wisdom to develop my spiritual gifts.

4. Lord, remove every fear, doubt, and limitation hindering my gifts.

5. Father, let my gifts bring glory to Your name and expansion to Your kingdom.