Three Keys For Holy Living! (part 3 of 4)

Again, noting part of Paul's exhortation to Timothy we read. . .
"(22) So flee youthful passions and PURSUE RIGHTEOUSNESS, FAITH, LOVE, AND PEACE, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart." ( 2 Timothy 2:22 ESV)

Here is the second key to keep in hand in the effort to move us toward more holy living. Besides fleeing away from that which could entrap or lead us away from God, we must also RUN AFTER (pursue) the right things.

Recently I heard someone share the illustration of bending a pen to see how far it would bend without breaking. Sometimes we get curious about such things. However, when we find out is usually when the pen breaks and it is then too late! The damage is done! The same is true with life.

It has been long said that "curiosity killed the cat." Unfortunately that has become the fate of many people who took too close a look at what they should have stayed away from. It is dangerous to test ourselves to see how far we can bend without breaking (getting close to sin without getting burned). Instead we need to keep our eyes on the good things and RUN AFTER them. Drop the pursuits of the old life and pick up the pursuits relating to the new life in Christ: righteousness, faith, love, and peace.

We must recognize how much of the challenge begins in our minds. That is why we need to keep our eyes from straying and remain focused on the desires of God.

Paul urged. . .
"(8) Finally, brothers, whatever is TRUE, whatever is HONORABLE, whatever is JUST, whatever is PURE, whatever is LOVELY, whatever is COMMENDABLE, if there is any EXCELLENCE, if there is anything WORTHY OF PRAISE, THINK ABOUT THESE THINGS." ( Philippians 4:8 ESV)

Bottom line, if our focus or particular life PURSUIT does not fall into one of those categories, we best forget it and RUN AFTER that which does! This will be the key to opening the way for more godly living. May we remain serious about developing a desire to please God. RUN AFTER holiness! That is where God will be also!

Have a great day FAITHFULLY FOLLOWING AFTER THE THINGS OF GOD!
Carl

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