by Dottie Compton
IGNITE THE FIRE:
SEEKING GOD’S PRESENCE THROUGH SCRIPTURES
In the journey of faith, the concept of seeking God through igniting the fire within becomes of great importance. Paul’s exhortation in 2 Timothy 1:6-7 serves as a powerful reminder of our divine calling to stir up our God-given gifts.
As we explore the meaning of “ignite” and its implications on our spiritual walk, we are compelled to introspect and evaluate our alignment with God’s will. Let us embark on the journey of seeking God’s presence through the Scriptures, exploring His Word, and igniting the flame of His love, power, and discipline within us.
For several days I have been pondering the word “ignite” until I find myself consumed with its message.
SEEKING GOD TO IGNITE THE INNER FLAME
Paul’s Exhortation to Timothy
Paul, speaking in 2 Timothy 1:6-7, reminded Timothy to stir up (rekindle, fan the flame, and keep burning) with the gift of God (the inner fire) that was in him. Reminding Timothy that God did not give us the spirit of fear, but (He has given us a spirit) of power, love, calm, well-balanced mind, discipline, and self-control.
What Does it Mean to “Ignite” the Fire in Your Walk With God?
Ignite means: to kindle, stir up, provoke, stimulate, or fuel.
As I pondered these thoughts I realized Paul was revealing a much deeper meaning than I originally thought. It encompasses the notion of awakening dormant passions, rekindling fading enthusiasm, and invigorating one’s spirit.
As I pondered these profound implications, I had to ask myself some pretty tough questions and confront some challenging inquiries.
SELF-REFLECTION WHILE SEEKING GOD
Evaluating Spiritual Passion
Am I on fire for God?
Am I showing evidence of that fire, ablaze with fervent passion and devotion??
Am I walking in the power of love, calm, discipline, and self-control?
Do my actions and attitudes bear witness to the flame burning within me?
Am I actively manifesting the transformative power of God’s love, maintaining a tranquil demeanor amidst life’s storms, exercising discipline, and exercising self-control?
Am I aware of my inner life, and cognizant of the spiritual dynamics at play within my heart and soul?
Acknowledging Sinful Nature
It’s hard to admit, but I haven’t consistently maintained the fervent passion for God that He deserves, despite my unwavering love for Him. I came to realize during those times that I put my love for myself and other things before my love for Him.
Reflecting on these moments of spiritual lull, I’ve come to recognize that at times I’ve allowed my affection for myself and worldly pursuits to overshadow my devotion to Him.
REPENTANCE AND RENEWAL
Turning to God in Repentance
Let’s be real, we can know or see the truth, but it doesn’t automatically make us free.
It took me becoming miserable enough within myself before I ran to God and repented for my wrongdoing, asking Him for forgiveness and the ability to rebuild His fire within me and, most importantly, to help me stay so close to Him that I don’t love anything or anyone more than I love Him, moving forward.
Seeking God’s Active Presence
God is always our answer, never our problem.
The fire He wants to kindle is a fire of change.
Real change, where God’s active presence is present, only comes by seeking God’s presence through scriptures.
If we sincerely want change, then we must also want God’s presence.
We start by running to Him and making things right between the two of us.
PURSUING PEACE THROUGH ALIGNMENT WITH GOD
Alignment with God’s Priorities
When we repent and align ourselves with God, we are aligning ourselves with His priorities. That’s when we begin to pursue things that make for Peace (Luke 19:42). This pursuit leads us to cultivate compassion, forgiveness, and kindness, and foster unity around us.
As we prioritize God’s will, His peace becomes the umpire that decides with all finality every question that arises in our minds.
Colossians 3:15 AMPC
“And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always].”
Pursuing God Awakens (if you will) the Holy Spirit’s ability to guide us in every situation. He will be our guiding light in a world filled with chaos and uncertainty. Keep in mind His will only work as we surrender to it and obey.
Strengthening Spiritual Fire
Let God help you build your fire stronger so you can walk in His power of love, a well-balanced mind, self-control, and discipline. You will become an agent of change in your personal life and those around you while enjoying His peace in fresh new ways!
IGNITE THE FIRE THROUGH SEEKING GOD
Exploring the Presence of God Through Scripture
Igniting the fire of God’s presence within you is not merely a suggestion but imperative to have a successful life.
As you journey through the depths of Scripture, you will unearth profound truths and timeless wisdom that will stir your soul, awaken your spirit, and guide you in making the right decisions in life.
Through self-reflection and acknowledgment of your shortcomings, you will come to understand the significance of repentance and how it sparks renewal in your walk with God and those around you.
Seeking God’s active presence through Scripture will illuminate your path, guiding you toward alignment with His priorities for your life and the pursuit of peace.
Heed Paul’s exhortation to Timothy, embracing the call to ignite the fire of God’s love, power, and discipline within you. As you continue your journey of seeking God through Scripture and living out His transformative truth in every aspect of your life you will experience His power like never before.
Let Him help you build your fire stronger so you can walk in His power of love, a well-balanced mind, self-control, and discipline.
You will become an agent of change in your own life and those around you while enjoying His peace in fresh new ways ❤️
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