“This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God has given to you…” 2 Timothy 1:6
Everyone loves a good cookout! There’s nothing like the smell of charcoal fired up with the burgers, hot dogs, chicken or Italian sausage sizzlin’ on the grill and ready to be served. Hanging out with family and friends for Tailgate parties or a fall picnic brings back such great memories.
After all the bellies are full and the dishes are empty, the designated clean up crew gets everything packed and put away. The cook closes the lid to the grill and slowly the fire goes out until the next get together.
Like the fire that slowly fades under the lid of the closed grill, many Christians find it hard to stay fired up about their faith. Unintentionally, busy schedules and seemingly good activities distract them. Before anyone notices, the believer slowly disconnects with God and the passion in their heart for Christ begins to diminish.
How can a follower of Christ stay fired up?
Let’s look at four ways to stay connected to God and keep the fire burning using the S.O.A.P. Acronym:
S…Scripture
Read God’s Word on a daily basis.
KEEP THE WORD BURNING IN YOUR HEART FOR THE LORD.
Psalm 39:3 “my heart grew hot within me. While I meditated, the fire burned; then I spoke with my tongue” (NIV)
O…Obedience
Be dedicated to do what God’s Word says.
KEEP AN OBEDIENT HEART BURNING FOR THE LORD.
John 14:15,21 “If you love me, keep my commands. Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.” (NIV)
A…Apply it to your life
Memorize Scripture and apply it to your life.
KEEP THE SCRIPTURE BURNING IN YOUR HEART FOR THE LORD.
Jeremiah 20:9 “But if I say, I will not mention His word or speak anymore in His name, His word is in my heart like a fire.”(NIV) Psalms 119: 11 “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”(NIV)
P…Prayer
Spend time in prayer talking to God.
KEEP YOUR PRAYERS BURNING IN YOUR HEART FOR THE LORD.
James 5:16 “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” (NKJV)
The Webster’s Dictionary defines “fervent” as “very hot”. So, keep your prayers “very hot” in your heart for the Lord!
Every time you reach for the soap to wash your hands take an opportunity to go through the S.O.A.P. acronym . You will be blessed as you keep the fire burning.
God gives instructions in Leviticus 6:12
“The fire on the altar must be kept burning. It must not go out.”
I’m always asking God; “How can I help others be encouraged to keep the fire burning for you in their hearts?”
Are you struggling with life and a passion for Christ?
If you have found a good solution to keeping the fire burning and your passion for Christ, would you be willing to leave a comment and share it with others. You would be a great source of encouragement and give others new ideas to stay fresh and on fire with their faith.
So, let me encourage you. God knows your struggles and will be there for you when you call out to only your Savior Jesus Christ in prayer. He desires for us to keep the fire burning for Him and then ignite a flame for Christ in others.
Stay Fired Up!
Jayme a Spiritual Direction Coach. Mentor, Author, and Podcast Host is passionate about moving Christian Women forward to God’s direction for their life through Scripture and prayer. Join the Spiritual Direction Coaching Today Facebook private page or connect with her on Instagram.
