(2 Timothy 1:6: Therefore, I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands).

Our world is filled with a lot of talented and gifted people, but it’s not every one of these gifted individuals that ultimately does something constructive with what they have. Hence, the question, “what have you done with your gift?” In 2Tim.1:6, the great Apostle Paul admonishes Timothy to do something positive about his gift. The phrase “stir up” here means to “rekindle or to kindle up.” This is something Timothy had to do himself. So, Paul was basically reminding him of his duty or responsibility to his gift. In the same vein, you also have certain responsibilities towards your gift if it’s ever going to see the light of day.

Generally, the word “gift” means a natural ability or talent, endowment, what you do easily, or naturally without struggle or what you are graced for.

So, what have you done with your gift, or what are you doing with your gift? From experience, I have discovered that people generally fall into 3 basic categories when it comes to what they have done with their gifts and they are as follows:

• Some bury their gift(s). By this I mean they are hiding or have hidden their talents. These kinds of people don’t want others to know what they have or what they can do (Matt.25:19). Are you burying or hiding your gifts?
• Some keep their gift(s) (Luke 19:20). Your talent is not meant to be kept safe or preserved but it’s meant to be utilized. In fact, you get the best out of your talent by showcasing it and not keeping it somewhere. Where have you kept your gift(s)?
• Some trade with their gift(s). These are the people who work and engage their gift(s) and they are the ones who ultimately get the best out of it (Matthew 25:16-19). Do you belong to this category?

Precious child of God, it is apparent that God expects you to do something positive about your gift(s) as we can see from our study today. Are you ready to rise up to this challenge?

Other Scriptural References: (Matthew 25:14-30; Luke 19:12-26; I Timothy 4:14).

Prayer for Today: Father, please forgive me for not taking responsibility concerning my gifts. I declare today that I will begin to do something constructive concerning my gifts. Holy Spirit, be my helper in this regard in Jesus name, amen.

CONFESSION: I commit myself today to do something positive about my gifts and talents. I refuse to blame anybody or my circumstances for not using my gifts, but I assume total responsibility from now on. I say no to laziness and every form of excuses. I take hold of my destiny today as I begin to deploy and use my talents to the glory of His name.

Pastor Yemi Adeoti

Yemi Adeoti is a pastor, teacher, life coach and mentor & also a prolific writer.