March 22, 2024
Rekindling the Flame
Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery. Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all. Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you. 1 Timothy 4:14-16
Passion to serve the Lord and share the gospel will ebb and flow throughout a believer’s life. Some choose to settle for a lukewarm existence—neither risking much for His name nor receiving many blessings. Others stop ministering altogether and drift aimlessly through life. But whenever we feel indifferent, we should try to rekindle the flame of passion that was first lit at the moment of salvation.
When we were saved, we received the gift of the Holy Spirit. So, the first step is to pray for the Holy Spirit to fill—or control—us afresh. That requires self-examination and repentance of any sins the Lord brings to mind. It also means giving back to God the right to reign over our life.
Next, think about what was (and what wasn’t) happening in life when passion last burned brightly. What external pressures and activities affected your ministry then and now? How can you prioritize such things wisely?
Finally, devote a day or more to retreat and refocus on the Lord. Meditate on His words of encouragement, such as Isaiah 41:10. This way, instead of fixating on our problems, we can remember He is our shepherd in every situation. The passion we experienced at salvation can be ours again as we focus on the Lord.
Listen to Dr. Michael W. Wesley Sr. on OnePlace.com
Watch Dr. Michael W. Wesley Sr. on LightSource.com
