“Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts” (2 Timothy 2:22 NLT).
Paul told Timothy that there is a time to retreat and a time to run after. As it regards “youthful lusts,” the command is to flee. Unlike the instruction to “stand firm” against the devil (Eph. 6:11), lust is not defeated by direct assault, nor resistance. It is to be avoided. When an image in a movie or magazine causes arousal, turn it off or throw it away! When the stomach growls for the apple, get out of the orchard! Run away! As Jesus taught His disciples to pray, “Lead us not into temptation” (Matt. 6:13). Ask for God’s help to avoid temptation.
Yet avoiding those things that cause lust is not enough. For it still focuses the mind on the sin denied, rather than the righteousness desired. So don’t just retreat from lust, but run after righteousness. “Pursue” it. Chase after it. Pursuing righteousness leaves less time for lustful temptation. Pull your affections off your idols and put them on Jesus. Pursue Christ!
Finally, surround yourself with others who are running after Jesus. “Enjoy the companionship” of fellow believers who are able to offer mutual support in life’s race.
PRAYER: Dear Father, we pray as the Lord Jesus has taught us: “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” Yet if temptation comes, give us a way out that we might not sin. Strengthen us to pursue righteousness at all times. In Jesus’ name, amen.