"Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." -2 Timothy 2:22
What does it mean that we might flee youthful lusts? If we notice here, it says, "flee also," so in all actuality, it is simply adding onto the already intended purpose and emphasis of what is being stated (vs. 1,10,15, 20-21). What Paul is exhorting Timothy in here is upon how he should seek to be strong by the grace that has been given while dwelling in the coexistence of those who are seeking God in purity and untainted heart. This being the case, it is not hard to understand that Timothy was still a disciple. In other words, he didn't have it all down! But, with regards to any position, gender, or individual, we all must delve further into addressing these "youthful lusts" that we all struggle with. Youthful lusts consist of two primarily defined categories: 1) A "youthful" or hindering of growth. These may be titled the "habitual' sins, specific sins that hinder any and all growth because of the ensnaring and hold they may have upon us. These always seem to come back for us and keep us at this "youthful" state of spirituality rather than in a maturation process and fulfilled state in who Christ has now made us to be. 2) A "youthful" perspective and motive. What are you desiring for and in the midst of your life with Jesus? Many a time our perspectives of God's power is limited by immaturity of who God is. Jesus desires a fleeing of youthful things, but this requires the strength to let go and hold on to Him in faith, spirit, and in truth. How can a child do in his own strength what only a mature person can accomplish in God's strength? In light of all of this, our focuses must change and our dependence must become the life by which we lead for us to truly grow and develop. If your focus is on youthful things so shall your perspective, your strength, and your life be. Paul is saying, "Forget and flee these things that hinder your maturity!" Now the question that arises is, "How does one flee?" Looking at the second half of vs. 22, it is evident that if you are fleeing youthful lusts, then you are running in opposition to them. This implies a focus and pursuit of something else. In this aspect it is the characteristics of God in righteousness, faith, love, and peace that can only come when one seeks our LORD. For He is Love and is our peace(1 John 4:16, Ephesians 2:14). So, only by pursuing Him, with a pure heart, may we truly attain these attributes. Now, here is a beautiful an paradoxical cycle when we think about it. How does one pursue Jesus with a pure heart? By fleeing youthful lusts. How do we flee youthful lusts? By pursuing Jesus. In Him these other treasures of growth shall be consummated. EXHORTATION My, brothers and sisters, oh that we would seek Jesus. Seeing each moment that His heart actively pursues us! In order to grow to become strong, to mature you must GIVE UP. Give up these things that hinder you, give up trying to do it on your own strength, and GIVE IN to seeking and depending upon Him, just as He sought you. Other Scriptures: 1 Timothy 4:12,15 Titus 2:4-8 |
GARY RICHARDSONSAVED BY GRACE, IN SEARCH OF THINGS WHICH LAST FOR ETERNITY, I DESIRE TO DELVE INTO DAILY LIFE AS WE LIVE TO EMULATE THE LOVE CHRIST PARDONED TO US AS HUMANITY AND GOD'S CHURCH. Archives
October 2016
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