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    Stir Up the Gift

    2 Timothy 1:6 Commentary

    In-depth meaning, historical context, and practical application

    Written by Bible Sundays Editorial TeamChecked by Bible Sundays Scripture DeskLast reviewed August 1, 2026Our editorial standards
    "Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands."
    — 2 Timothy 1:6 (KJV)
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    Introduction

    One verse before the famous 'God hath not given us the spirit of fear' (v. 7), Paul tells Timothy to stir up the gift. Verse 7 makes sense only because of v. 6: the fire is already there — it needs blowing on, not begging for.

    Historical Context

    Paul writes from a Roman prison shortly before his execution (c. AD 67). Timothy, pastoring in Ephesus, is timid and discouraged. Paul reminds him of his ordination — the moment elders publicly recognized his gifting (cf. 1 Tim 4:14).

    Original Language Insights

    'Stir up' (anazōpureō) — to rekindle, to fan into flame. The image is of embers banked under ash; the fire is real but needs air.

    'Gift' (charisma) — grace-gift, a Spirit-given enablement for ministry.

    Theological Significance

    Spiritual gifts can grow cold without dying. Discouragement, fear, and neglect dampen the flame; deliberate use, prayer, and the Word fan it. The gift remains God's; the stirring is the believer's responsibility.

    Practical Application

    What gift has God put in you that has gone dormant? Teaching, hospitality, encouragement, intercession? Read v. 6 as a personal nudge: stir the embers. Use the gift this week, even small.

    Cross-References & Related Scriptures

    2 Timothy 1:7

    "God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

    The very next verse — why stir the gift? Because the Spirit you received is power, not fear.

    1 Timothy 4:14

    "Neglect not the gift that is in thee."

    Earlier letter, same charge — Paul circles back because Timothy is still battling timidity.

    Prayer Response

    Father, stir up the gift You placed in me. Blow on the embers I have neglected, and let me serve in the strength You supply. Amen.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What was Timothy's gift?

    Scripture doesn't name it precisely, but it likely included preaching, teaching, and pastoral oversight (1 Tim 4:13-14; 2 Tim 4:2).

    Read commentary on surrounding verses

    Continue studying 2 Timothy 1 verse by verse:

    After · 2 Timothy 1:7Exact verse

    For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

    Theme: Courage & Strength

    After · 2 Timothy 1:8Exact verse

    Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;

    Theme: Unashamed of the Chained Apostle

    Nearest commentary in 2 Timothy

    Later · 1 ch forward · 2 Timothy 2:15Nearest chapter

    Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

    Theme: Bible Study

    Later · 2 ch forward · 2 Timothy 3:16Nearest chapter

    All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

    Theme: Biblical Authority

    Later · 2 ch forward · 2 Timothy 3:16-17Nearest chapter

    All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

    Theme: Scripture's Authority

    Later · 2 ch forward · 2 Timothy 3:17Nearest chapter

    That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

    Theme: Word of God

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    Related Bible Questions

    Common questions people ask about this passage — answered with KJV scripture.

    What Does the Bible Say About Love?

    The Bible defines love not as a feeling but as a sacrificial choice — modeled perfectly by God's gift of His Son.

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    What Is Grace in the Bible?

    Grace is God's unmerited favor — His free gift of salvation and blessing that we cannot earn through our own efforts.

    Read answer

    What Does the Bible Say About Gratitude?

    The Bible commands thankfulness in all circumstances as an expression of faith, recognizing that every good gift comes from God and gratitude transforms our perspective.

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    What Does the Bible Say About Sex and Sexuality?

    The Bible presents sex as a good gift from God designed exclusively for the covenant of marriage between husband and wife.

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    What Does the Bible Say About Rest?

    God designed rest as a gift and a command, modeling it at creation and providing spiritual rest through Christ.

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    What Does the Bible Say About Eternal Life?

    Eternal life is the free gift of God through faith in Jesus Christ — not merely endless existence but knowing God personally.

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    Quick Devotional

    For a shorter devotional reflection on related verses:

    2 Timothy 1:7 – Meaning & Devotional

    "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

    2 Timothy 3:16-17 – Meaning & Devotional

    "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."

    2 Timothy 1:7 – Meaning & Devotional

    "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

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