fan into flame: The Holy Spirit's work does not happen automatically. Timothy must cultivate this work with careful attention to his spiritual life (see Ephesians 5:18–21; 1 Thessalonians 5:19–20; compare Acts 4:31; 7:55; 13:9).
the gift: This is the Holy Spirit empowering ministry (see 1 Corinthians 12:1–14:40; compare Acts 6:3, 5; 11:24).
through the laying on of my hands: Paul and the elders ordained (official ceremony of appointment) Timothy for ministry with a ceremony that included laying on of hands (1 Timothy 4:14).