Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands,  (7) For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and of a sound mind.  (8) Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God  (13) Hold fast the pattern  of sound words which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Jesus Christ. (14) That good thing which was committed to you, keep by the Holy Spirit who dwells in us. 

The second letter to Timothy, “Man of God”, was the last letter from the apostle Paul who was again in prison awaiting execution. Paul was writing to say goodby and to provide advice – “do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God.”  Paul refers to the laying on of his hands referring to ordination, and probably speaking of the office of pastor.  Grace is not given by an outward sign – an ancient Jewish custom – but was a sure pledge of God’s Grace; a lawful consecration before God sealed by the Holy Spirit.  The faithful are all ministers of God endowed with a new power.  Conversely, those who claim faith and do nothing in defense of the TRUTH are not governed by the Spirit. Assistance of the Spirit is present unless men reject it.

Paul reminds Timothy that this present world  was not friendly to the voice of God.  The gospel is the testimony of Christ Jesus and the ancient world was beginning to withdraw from Christ because of persecution.  Paul adds “according to the power of God” which was both a consolation for suffering  and and admonition not to doubt the promises of God.

Paul reminds Timothy to hold fast to sound doctrine which was/is always under attack.  Paul warns Timothy about the essentials of the gospel ; the standards of apostolic doctrine he heard from Paul that must be held in faith in Christ Jesus.  If we are believers we are also in the ministry; God will give us the gifts we need,  but the faithful are responsible to exercise their gifts which will become more apparent. All that we have is gifts from God.  We discover our gifts by serving; by recognition from others; by training and learning; by experience  and by exercising them sometimes when all seems lost and it is costly to do so.  Step out of your comfort zone and trust in God