AVOID OR ADVANCE?
Paul told Timothy that there is a time to retreat and a time to advance. 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. 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!
And run towards “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!
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.