Flee to Run

But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness.—1 Timothy 6:11

"Flee" means to run away, usually from a situational danger. It's not a walk or casual run, and it's a sprint as if you are running for your life. The things you are called to "flee"  in the previous verses were false teaching, controversies, and arguments focused on selfish desires. And while you may want to entertain, debate, and discuss them, you are commanded to "flee O man of God."

But you not only "flee," you "pursue." "Pursue" means to follow someone or something to catch or attack. Notice the power, strength, and mission in this meaning. It reinforces the second effort of the run, not only running from but running to something. The purpose of the pursuit is toward behaviors in high contrast to the outcomes of selfish desire. It includes "righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness." Each is a God-centered activity, born of a new desire and mission—a desire to please God, not yourself.

DO THIS: Flee and run as hard as possible.

PRAY THIS: God, give my spiritual muscles a little more strength and endurance today to flee and pursue in a two-fold effort I have not offered before. May my desires be focused, and my heart be ready for the holy pursuit needed for today.