WELCOME TO THE "EMBERS"

You could call me a word enthusiast. I love words, but even more so, I love the meanings of words. I find it continually fascinating to discover the meaning of words. After all, every word has a meaning! I believe words have power, but thoughts also have power.

As I got thinking about this new month of September, I realized that this is the start of the "ember" months (minus October, of course!): September, November, and December. So, what's special about that?

According to Merriam-Webster's Dictionary, the word "ember" means:

1. : a glowing fragment (as of coal) from a fire; especially : one smoldering in ashes

2. embers plural : the smoldering remains of a fire

3. embers plural : slowly dying or fading emotions, memories, ideas, or responses still capable of being revived

Wow, the word "ember" literally refers to a fragment or remain left of something that is still glowing, yet being "smoldered" or suppressed by the ashes and smoke.

Embers are very hot and "radiate a substantial amount of heat long after the fire has been extinguished" (Wikipedia). In fact, a fire can return from the embers if it is relit up to 12 hours after the orginal fire goes out (Wikipedia).

Perhaps, as we come to the last four months of the year 2018, there is potential to either "wind down" or "wind up." Of course, a new school season has started for many now and also, I think of September as a start of a new season simply because it is! Regardless of the summer heat still taking place hear on the USA east coast, we are hearing that "summer is over" and autumn is here. New seasons can create new mindsets.

What does the Bible say about embers? In

2 Timothy 1:6-7 Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC), Paul writes, "That is why I would remind you to stir up (rekindle the embers of, fan the flame of, and keep burning) the [gracious] gift of God, [the inner fire] that is in you by means of the laying on of my hands with those of the elders at your ordination]. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control."

I just love that right there in 2 Timothy, Paul reminds us first, that we have embers right inside of us that burn and reflect the beautiful gifts God has given us. And secondly, he reminds us that we must fan the flame so that they keep burning, keep alive, and keep working for God's glory. It must be easy to forget or let go of the inner gifts, dreams, and desires God has put inside of our hearts because otherwise, Paul wouldn't have needed to remind us. Let's not allow our inner-fire to be clouded by anything, including rejection, hurt, and/or self-doubt.

Again, with conviction, Paul urges us in the above scripture to not walk in timidity or fear, but to walk in the spirit God has given us which is of power, love, and a sound mind.

May I encourage you today to

1. Speak life and hope over your life this month and the months to come. If you've been or are currently in a fire right now emotionally and/or mentally speaking, then I pray you are encouraged to take hold of that courage inside of you to speak out "I am being strengthened with all power according to His might. I have great endurance and patience" (Colossians 1:11 NIV).

2. Remind your mind that you were made ready. Ephesians 2:8 (NIV) says, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God." Before existing or doing anything, you were given the gift of grace by God to walk in every season.

3. Keep your inner-fire burning. You have God-given gifts inside of you that are burning and waiting for you to "fan" into action. Go for it! Remember, it's NOT too late. This can be the start of something great.

Be blessed,

Catherine

“Ember.” Merriam-Webster, Merriam-Webster, www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ember.

“Ember.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 22 Aug. 2018, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ember.

“BibleGateway.” 2 Timothy 1:6-7 AMPC - - Bible Gateway, Bible Gateway Blog, www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%2BTimothy%2B1%3A6-7&version=AMPC.