Is the spiritual fire in your heart burning brightly,
or has it died to a faint smoulder?
The imagery of fire shines very brightly throughout the entire Biblical story. In fact, fire is often regarded as one of the most powerful images for God’s presence, power and judgement in Scripture. Right from the earliest pages of God’s story, the cherubim of God guarding the entrance into God’s presence, held “flaming swords which flashed back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life” (Genesis 24). Later when God appeared to Moses, it was through a mysterious bush which burned yet was not consumed (Exodus 3). Then when God presented himself before his people to give his law, his presence was seen as a ‘consuming fire’ (Exodus 19:8) and this fiery presence continued with them as they travelled through the wilderness.
The imagery of fire representing God’s presence and power continues through the New Testament, taking on the meaning of spiritual zeal and empowerment for ministry. John first prophesied Jesus’ promise that his disciples would be baptised with the Holy Spirit and with fire (Matthew 3:11). We see this promise fulfilled when the Holy Spirit was poured out upon them at Pentecost in the form of tongues of fire.
Certainly, from the moment the Holy Spirit takes residence in our hearts, the fiery gifts He brings are always living and active. He doesn’t merely dwell; He empowers, He refines, He emboldens, and He transforms. Yet, like a smouldering ember, the fervency of His presence within us can wane if left unattended.
In a world characterized by turmoil and strife, the need for the Holy Spirit’s transformative power has never been greater. We’re bombarded daily with messages of fear, division, and despair. In such times, fanning into flames the gift of the Holy Spirit becomes not just a suggestion but a necessity.
“For this reason, I remind you to fan into flames the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.”
2 Timothy 1:6-7 (NIV)
Paul personally knew the importance of keeping the Holy Spirit’s presence aflame within our hearts. It was for this reason that he urged Timothy to “fan into flame the gift of God” which was imparted to him through the laying on of hands. Flickers of this symbolism continue throughout Paul’s letters. For example, in Romans 12:11, he writes ‘Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervour, serving the Lord.” Interestingly, this phrase literally means “keep boiling in the spirit”.
Spiritual fervour is absolutely vital for ministry, Paul contends, which is why he urges Timothy to fan or stoke his spiritual fires into flame. Paul continues, “the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.” The Holy Spirit infuses us with courage, enabling us to overcome fear and uncertainty. He instils within us a profound sense of love, both for God and for others. And He equips us with self-discipline, enabling us to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace.
So, how do we go about fanning the flames of the Holy Spirit within us? It begins with a deliberate commitment to spiritual disciplines such as prayer (particularly, Jude writes, praying in the Spirit (Jude 1:20), meditation on Scripture, worship, and fellowship with other believers. These practices stoke the fire of the Spirit, igniting within us a passionate love for God and a fervent desire to live out His purposes.
Additionally, we must continually surrender ourselves to the leading of the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to guide and empower every aspect of our lives. As we yield to His promptings, we experience firsthand the power, love, and self-discipline that Paul describes. There is one other way we can be assisted in fanning the flames of the
Holy Spirit within us, and that is intentionally stepping aside to meet with other believers for the purpose of spiritual renewal and transformation.
Knowing the difficulty we all have in maintaining our spiritual fervour, Sharing of
Ministries Abroad (SOMA) is working with leaders from the Anglican Renewal Network of Australia (ARNA) to organise three mini Conferences called “Anglicans Ablaze Australia”. Learn more about these conferences in our latest Newsletter.
In closing, those familiar with A Prayer Book for Australia, will be aware of the spiritual practice of praying the Daily Offices. With an aim to keep our spiritual fervour white-hot and boiling, let us make a commitment to pray the morning prayer,
As we rejoice in the gift of this new day,
so may the light of your presence, O God,
set our hearts on fire with love for you; now and forever. Amen.
Yours in Christ, Reverend Melinda, National Director, SOMA