I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
– 1 Timothy 2:5-7
A spiritual parent does more than offer instruction or correction. They notice what God has already begun in a person’s life and then actively nurture that seed into something greater. Paul begins by affirming Timothy’s sincere faith, a quality he recognises as real and already present. Spiritual parenthood means having eyes to see not just where someone is struggling, but where God is already at work. And then, gently but firmly, calling that person to develop what’s been given and to take the next step of growth.
This is what spiritual parenthood looks like: seeing the spark and helping turn it into fire. Whether it’s a trace of faith, an emerging gift, or the first signs of spiritual hunger, the spiritual parent fans it into flame through encouragement, prayer, teaching, and challenge. They call others not to stay where they are but to grow with boldness, knowing that the Spirit within them brings power, love, and self-discipline—not fear.
Prayer
Lord, help me to recognise the sparks You’ve placed in others. Make me attentive, gentle, and bold in encouraging their growth. Teach me how to walk with them for their strengthening. Amen.
Meditation
Who in my life has shown early signs of faith or gifting and how can I help fan it into flame?