2 Timothy 1

Q1: What exactly is a spiritual gift? Is it like a talent?

A:
A spiritual gift is a God-given ability empowered by the Holy Spirit to serve and build up others in the body of Christ.

“There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit gives them.”
— 1 Corinthians 12:4 GNT

Unlike natural talents, spiritual gifts are not inherited or learned — they are given by the Spirit for Kingdom impact.

Q2: Who gets spiritual gifts — only pastors or “deep” Christians?

A:
No, every believer receives at least one spiritual gift.

“The Spirit’s presence is shown in some way in each person for the good of all.”
— 1 Corinthians 12:7 GNT

If you have received Christ, you’ve also received the Holy Spirit — and with Him, a gift.

Q3: What are some examples of spiritual gifts?

A:
The Bible lists many, including:

• Wisdom
• Knowledge
• Faith
• Healing
• Miraculous powers
• Prophecy
• Discernment
• Speaking in tongues
• Interpretation of tongues
  (See 1 Corinthians 12:8–10)

“The Spirit gives one person a message full of wisdom, while to another person the same Spirit gives a message full of knowledge.”
— 1 Corinthians 12:8 GNT

Q4: How do I find out what my spiritual gift is?

A:
Start by seeking God in prayer, observing what energizes you spiritually, and listening to feedback from other believers.

“We have different gifts, according to the grace God has given us.”
— Romans 12:6 GNT

Spiritual gifts often show up where your passion meets someone else’s need.

Q5: I’m shy. What if my gift is something bold like prophecy or evangelism?

A:
God equips the called. He often chooses people who feel unqualified so He gets the glory.

“Instead, God chose what the world considers foolish to shame the wise, and chose what the world considers weak to shame the strong.”
— 1 Corinthians 1:27 GNT

The Holy Spirit gives both the gift and the boldness to walk in it (see Acts 1:8).

Q6: Do I get to choose which gift I want?

A:
Not exactly. The Holy Spirit distributes gifts according to God’s will.

“But it is one and the same Spirit who does all this; as he wishes, he gives a different gift to each person.”
— 1 Corinthians 12:11 GNT

However, we are encouraged to eagerly desire the greater gifts, especially those that build others up (1 Corinthians 12:31).

Q7: What if I misuse my gift or become proud?

A:
Gifts must be used with humility and love. Without love, even the greatest gift becomes meaningless.

“I may be able to speak the languages of human beings and even of angels, but if I have no love, my speech is no more than a noisy gong or a clanging bell.”
— 1 Corinthians 13:1 GNT

Let the fruit of the Spirit guide the use of the gifts (Galatians 5:22–23).

Q8: Can I lose my spiritual gift?

A:
God does not take back His gifts, but we can neglect or fail to develop them.

“Do not neglect the spiritual gift that is in you…”
— 1 Timothy 4:14a GNT

Use it, grow it, and fan it into flame (see 2 Timothy 1:6).

Q9: What if I don’t feel anything? Does that mean I don’t have the Holy Spirit or any gift?

A:
Your feelings don’t define your faith. If you’ve accepted Christ, the Spirit lives in you — and your gift may be waiting to be discovered.

“But you do not live as your human nature tells you to; instead, you live as the Spirit tells you to—if, in fact, God’s Spirit lives in you.”
— Romans 8:9 GNT

Q10: Can spiritual gifts be used outside the church — like at school or online?

A:
Yes! The gifts are for wherever God places you. Church is the training ground — the world is the mission field.

“Each one, as a good manager of God’s different gifts, must use for the good of others the special gift he has received from God.”
— 1 Peter 4:10 GNT

Use your gifts on campus, in your DMs, at home — wherever people need Jesus.

 Final Thought

You are not too young, too new, or too ordinary.
If you have the Spirit, you are already equipped. Don’t bury your gift — use it for God’s glory and others’ good.

 1: The Strength of a Mother

• Reading: Proverbs 31:25-31 She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.

The Bible honors mothers who are strong, wise, and diligent. A Proverbs 31 woman is described as clothed with strength and dignity, speaking with wisdom, and watching over her household with care. Her children rise to call her blessed, and her works bring her praise. This passage celebrates the nurturing spirit and resilience that define motherhood.

• Reflection:
  How can you embody strength and dignity in your journey as a mother or as a mentor to others? Pray for wisdom and grace to impact your family positively.

2: A Mother’s Faith

• Reading: 2 Timothy 1:3-7 I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.

Timothy’s strong faith was nurtured by two remarkable women—his mother, Eunice, and his grandmother, Lois. Their sincere belief shaped his spiritual foundation, enabling him to become a respected leader. This story reminds us of the powerful influence that a mother’s faith can have on her children, passing down a legacy of devotion and integrity.

• Reflection:
  Think about the spiritual heritage you are creating for your children. Pray for your faith to be steadfast and inspiring, impacting future generations.

3: God’s Comfort Like a Mother’s Love

• Reading: Isaiah 66:13 As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem.

In a beautiful comparison, God promises to comfort His people just as a mother comforts her child. This image conveys warmth, safety, and reassurance. When life brings hardships, God’s nurturing presence surrounds us, reminding us that we are never alone. Mothers often reflect this aspect of God’s character, offering solace and encouragement through life’s challenges.

• Reflection:
  Have you experienced God’s comforting presence recently? Take a moment to thank Him for His unwavering love and pray for the ability to extend that same comfort to your family.

4: A Mother’s Prayer

• Reading: 1 Samuel 1:9-20 And she made a vow, saying, “Lord Almighty, if you will only look on your servant’s misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head.

Hannah’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of prayer and surrender. Despite her years of childlessness and ridicule, she poured out her heart to God. When God blessed her with Samuel, she faithfully kept her vow and dedicated him to the Lord’s service. Hannah’s faith teaches us that persistent prayer and trust can turn sorrow into joy.

• Reflection:
  What are you earnestly praying for as a mother? Bring your deepest desires to God, trusting Him to work in ways that surpass your understanding.

5: Waiting on God for a Child

• Reading: Psalm 113:9 He settles the childless woman in her home as a happy mother of children. Praise the Lord.

This verse is a promise of hope to those longing for children: “He settles the childless woman in her home as a happy mother of children.” God sees the silent prayers of women waiting for the fruit of the womb, and His compassion reaches those who feel forgotten. Like Sarah, Hannah, and Elizabeth, many women in the Bible experienced long periods of waiting, but God’s timing brought joy.

• Reflection:
  If you or someone you know is waiting for a child, take comfort in God’s faithfulness. Pray for peace, strength, and hope, believing that God’s plans are good and His timing is perfect.

6: A Mother’s Legacy of Love

• Reading: Ruth 1:16-18 Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.

Naomi’s relationship with Ruth exemplifies love and loyalty beyond blood relations. Ruth’s decision to stay with Naomi despite personal loss shows that family bonds can be forged through love, commitment, and shared faith. Naomi’s guidance and Ruth’s dedication eventually led to God’s blessing in their lives.

• Reflection:
  Consider the people God has placed in your life who feel like family. How can you nurture and support them with love and encouragement?

7: A Mother’s Blessing

• Reading: Luke 1:46-55 For the Mighty One has done great things for me, holy is his name.

Mary’s song of praise reflects a mother’s joy and humble gratitude. Despite the uncertainties of her calling, she glorified God for choosing her to bear the Savior. Her willingness to embrace God’s plan, even when it seemed daunting, teaches us to rejoice in the blessings we receive while remaining faithful through challenges.

• Reflection:
  Take time to praise God for the gift of motherhood and the privilege of shaping lives. Pray for the grace to guide your children in love, faith, and wisdom.

Discipline. It’s a word that can sound rigid or intimidating, yet it’s the secret ingredient to achieving your goals and living a purposeful life. As we step into this new year, let’s explore how biblical wisdom can shape our understanding of discipline and help us thrive in every area of life. Here are seven powerful Bible verses that can guide you to embrace discipline and build a life worth living.

1. Hebrews 12:11 

“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”

Discipline isn’t easy, and let’s be real, most of us would rather binge-watch our favorite shows than stick to a workout plan or study for exams. But think of discipline as planting seeds. The effort you put in now even when it feels tough will lead to a life full of peace, stability, and purpose. Start by asking yourself, What seeds am I planting today?

2. Proverbs 25:28 

“Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.”

Imagine a city without walls, completely vulnerable to attacks. That’s what life feels like without discipline. Self-control acts as a shield, protecting your mind, time, and energy from distractions and harmful influences. This year, rebuild those walls by setting boundaries, whether it’s limiting screen time, managing your finances, or saying “no” to toxic habits.

3. 1 Corinthians 9:25 

“Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.”

Athletes don’t just show up on game day and hope for the best; they train hard every single day. Think of your goals as your personal championship. Whether it’s excelling in your career, strengthening your faith, or building relationships, discipline is the training ground that prepares you for success. What’s your eternal crown, and how are you working toward it?

4. Proverbs 12:1 

“Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid.”

Harsh? Maybe. True? Absolutely. Learning from mistakes and being open to correction is essential for growth. When a mentor, teacher, or friend offers constructive criticism, don’t dismiss it. Instead, use it as an opportunity to refine yourself. This year, adopt a growth mindset that embraces learning, even when it’s uncomfortable.

5. 2 Timothy 1:7 

“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.”

Discipline isn’t something you have to muster up on your own; it’s a gift from God. Through His Spirit, you have the power to conquer procrastination, overcome fear, and stick to your commitments. When you feel overwhelmed or tempted to quit, tap into the strength God has already placed within you.

6. Galatians 6:9 

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Ever feel like your efforts are pointless? Maybe you’ve been working hard, but the results aren’t visible yet. Don’t lose heart. Discipline is about consistency, not instant gratification. Whether it’s staying faithful in prayer, working on your side hustle, or investing in relationships, your perseverance will pay off. Keep going; your harvest is coming.

7. Psalm 119:105 

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

Discipline is easier when you have a clear direction. Let God’s Word be your guide this year. Start a habit of reading the Bible daily, even if it’s just a verse or two. Allow Scripture to shape your choices and priorities, illuminating the path toward your purpose.

Bringing It All Together

Discipline isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being intentional. It’s about taking small, consistent steps that lead to big changes over time. Whether you’re setting fitness goals, working on your faith, or pursuing career dreams, these verses remind us that discipline is both a gift and a responsibility.

This year, challenge yourself to embrace discipline as an act of worship and a step toward becoming the person God created you to be. Your future self will thank you.