healing

"I know that you sincerely trust the Lord...This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift that God gave you when I laid my hands on you. For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. So you must never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord." 2 Timothy 1:5-8

There have been a few times in my life when people have had visions of me with the gift of healing. God has also shown me this a few times. The thought of it brings feelings of doubt and terror but also excitement and priveledge. I like how these verses start out with Paul reminding Timothy that he sincerely trusts the Lord and he has strong faith. Timothy needed to know that when hands were laid on him he did indeed receive his spiritual gift. I have often doubted the gift of healing and wondered where "I came up with that". That is why Paul says that Timothy must fan the flames of his spiritual gift. Being given a spiritual gift does not mean that you lose control of your body. It takes discipline to keep the flames burning. It reminds me of something Pastor Troy said in New Orleans, "If you're not praying for those who need healing, why would God give you the gift of healing?" (paraphrased)

God has reminded me over and over again of my responsibility to pray for others and keep my antennaes up for the opportunity. Paul reminds Timothy that God does not give a spirit of fear and timidity. These two characteristics pop up as soon as Satan plants doubt in us--doubt that we heard God correctly and doubt that God will work through us. Paul says that God has given us the spirit of power, love, and self-discipline. And this is precisely how we are able to step out and go for it. This is how I will be able to pray for healing. This is how I will not be ashamed to approach in love and ask if I can pray.

God, I have no idea what you have planned for me and no idea how you want to use me to heal. Please fiveme discernment and wisdom and keep reminding me of my responsibility to be disciplined in prayer. Remind me that you have given me the spirit of power, love, and self-discipline.