Fleeing Toward

In 1 Timothy 6:11, Paul, looking back at everything from old wives tales, strange doctrines and poor financial choices, tells Tim to flee from such things. Flee! Run Away! Escape! These things will ensnare you, perhaps in such a way that you are unaware until it is too late. However, Paul does not just stop at the “don’ts.” He gives Tim goals. Flee toward! Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness.

“Pursue” is a challenging word. Most Christians seem to live with a laid-back approach to God, His Word, and His character. There are moments of discipline and seeking. Yet “pursuit” is not a word used to characterize our walk with God.

That word “pursuit,” calls to mind the image of a defensive back pursuing an opponent who, if allowed to score, gives the victory to those same opponents. Think of a police chase. “Pursuit” implies intensity, focus, fearlessness, single-mindedness.

It is this same focus and pursuit that God calls us to.