Throughout my elementary and middle school years, the dance studio was practically my second home. It began with tap lessons, and soon I added ballet and jazz to my repertoire. The rhythm of the music resonated deeply within me, yet perfecting the steps demanded consistent practice and unwavering discipline.
I remember one of my dance instructors who used a long stick to beat out the rhythm of our routines on the hardwood floor as we rehearsed. She insisted on precision in every movement, ensuring it harmonized with the music’s emotional nuances. Occasionally, she would demonstrate sections of the dance, and I yearned to emulate her grace, to express the song’s emotion with each elegant sashay and compass turn.
Just as I had my dance mentor, in the Bible, a young man named Timothy found a spiritual mentor in the Apostle Paul. Paul’s letter, 2 Timothy, served as encouragement for Timothy to emulate his guidance and refocus on his faith.
“This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift 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” (2 Timothy 1:6-7).
When Paul urged Timothy to “fan into flames,” he used a Greek term that essentially meant “ignite it.” He was encouraging Timothy to activate his spiritual gifts and allow them to shine for the benefit of others.
Sometimes, mastering something new presents unexpected challenges. However, as we unwrap our gifts, nurture them, and dedicate time to practice, we steadily progress towards realizing our full potential.
In this scripture, Paul also addressed Timothy’s lack of self-assurance. Timothy might have doubted his abilities, but Paul reassured him that feelings of fear and timidity do not originate from God.
Perhaps you’ve experienced similar feelings. I know I have. The negative voices whispering, you’re not skilled enough, you can’t match her abilities, and you’re bound to fail, seem to echo from every direction.
We all need a supportive community to uplift us in our giftings. Timothy relied on Paul’s mentorship to remind him of his God-given gifts and to inspire him to continually seek God’s purpose. I needed my dance teacher to emphasize the rhythm and demonstrate the dance steps so I could discover the flow. Mentors, teachers, fellow believers, and friends—we all need them to encourage us in the dance of life.
Embracing our gifts with power, love, and self-discipline requires courage. And God has already equipped us with this courage through the Holy Spirit within us. So, put on your metaphorical dance shoes, my friend—it’s time to move forward.
Dear God, help me to discern Your voice above all others. Ignite the gifts You have placed within me, and grant me the courage to use them for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Unwrapping gifts of faith and talent for God's glory
Inspirational Gifts for Your Journey
Looking for gifts to encourage yourself or someone you know in their journey of faith and discovering their talents? Here are a few ideas inspired by today’s devotion:
Books on Spiritual Gifts
Deepen your understanding of spiritual gifts with books that explore different gifts, how to identify them, and how to use them effectively for God’s glory. These insightful resources can be valuable Gifts For anyone seeking to understand their role in God’s plan.
Mentorship Resources
Mentorship plays a crucial role in developing our gifts. Consider gifting books or online courses about mentorship, both for those seeking mentors and those who aspire to mentor others. These gifts can help foster supportive relationships and guidance.
Journals for Reflection
A beautiful journal can be a thoughtful gift to encourage reflection on one’s gifts and talents. Journaling prompts focused on self-discovery, faith, and purpose can further enhance this gift, making it a powerful tool for personal growth.
Music and Dance Inspired Gifts
For those who resonate with the dance analogy in the devotion, gifts related to music or dance can be meaningful. This could include dance classes, inspirational music albums, or even items like dance shoes or apparel as a symbolic encouragement to “step out” in their gifts.
“Kailani’s Gift” Children’s Book
Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young’s new multicultural children’s book, Kailani’s Gift, is a wonderful gift, especially for families. Releasing on April 16th, this book celebrates family, heritage, and the value of patience and perseverance in developing talents. It’s a colorful picture book that shows the blessing of sharing your gifts with others. Preorder your copy today!
Counseling and Support Resources as Gifts of Care
Sometimes the best gift we can offer ourselves or others is support during challenging times. If you or someone you know is facing overwhelming situations, consider exploring counseling resources. Sharing information about faith-based counseling or support networks can be a truly caring and helpful gift. Click here for care and counseling resources.
Engage Further
Subscribe to Dorina’s weekly Glorygram for ongoing encouragement in your journey of faith and gift discovery.
Follow her on Instagram @DorinaGilmore for daily inspiration.
For Deeper Study
James 1:17, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change” (ESV).
Romans 12:6-8, “In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.” (NLT)
Reflect on these Bible passages. How do they inspire you to unwrap and use your gifts? Share your thoughts in the comments.
© 2024 by Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young. All rights reserved.
What We Believe
