There's nothing quite like the smell of a big pot of soup or chilli simmering on the stove during these chilly winter months. The savoury aroma fills the kitchen, bringing comfort and warmth on cold days. I don't know about you, but something about stirring a steaming pot of soup feels soothing to the soul.

As I stand over the pot, swirling the wooden spoon around and around, I'm reminded of what Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 1:6-7:

6 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. 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

Paul told Timothy to "stir up the gift of God.” Just as stirring brings all the ingredients together in a soup pot, we must continuously stir up God’s gift within us.

At first glance in the pot, the calm surface of the broth shows little of what lies beneath. But as we stir and blend the contents, the hidden treasures emerge—tender meat, hearty vegetables, beans, pasta and more. Yum!  All the layers of flavour are incorporated into one delicious dish.

Likewise, when we actively stir up the gift of God by faith, things hidden deep within come bubbling to the surface. As we reflect on who He is and His goodness, our confidence rises. The more we meditate on the truths of Scripture and Christ's power, the more emboldened we become. Any spirit of fear flees as we dwell on past victories and miracles.

Stirring our spiritual pot brings reassurance and boldness to the surface. The act of intentionally remembering God's provisions prepares us for whatever lies ahead. As a spoon circles around a soup pot, our minds swirl with thoughts of the Almighty's mighty hand. And His perfect love effortlessly casts out fear.

So next time you're standing over a steaming pot, letting the aroma soothe your senses, remember to stir up the gift within. Reflect on God's faithfulness, stir up your most precious memories of His work in your life, and watch as confidence and courage rise. The act of spiritual stirring warms us from the inside out. It unites all the precious ingredients of our faith into a dish that nourishes our soul and spirit.

Is anyone else hungry for soup now?