2 Timothy 1:6-7

What do you do when you've lost your enthusiasm for ministry? Perhaps difficult circumstances have led to discouragement. Or maybe you just keep going, but the Spirit seems absent and no fruit is visible. Paul told Timothy to "kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you" (v. 6), but how is that accomplished? Over the years, God has taught me what to do whenever I sense that my flame is beginning to flicker.

Refill: Ministry is exciting when we're filled with the Holy Spirit, but everyone springs a leak now and then. Get on your knees before the Lord and ask for a refill. Examine your life, repent of any sins, and submit to His leadership in every area.

Refocus: Nothing dims the flame like fixing your eyes on the problem. Whenever we focus on obstacles, they grow larger. But when we shift our eyes to Christ, He becomes bigger than any problem we face.

Reject: When we're down, the Devil whispers his lies into our minds: You can't do this. No one appreciates you. Why not call it quits? We need to recognize all discouraging thoughts as coming from him--and reject them.

Retreat: Turn off the phone, electronics, and entertainment, and get away with the Lord to rekindle your intimate relationship with Him.

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After going through all these steps, you will be able to return to ministry with new enthusiasm and commitment. Hard circumstances may remain, but you'll be equipped to handle them because the Spirit's flame is burning brightly within you. Rely on Him, and He will empower you for service.