“Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
2 Timothy 2:22
These words were first given by Paul to Timothy to encourage him toward godliness and fruitfulness in his ministry as it was just beginning. Look at all the encouragement there for us as well.
We’re commanded to flee from youthful passions. Young Timothy would have heard this and understood that with youth comes zeal and passion. We who are getting older might remember our days when we had fresh energy and strength. Not all of that passion is good! Paul refers here to sinful impulses, foolish behaviors, and perhaps sexual immorality. He urges us to “have nothing to do with foolish … arguments, because you know they produce quarrels” (v. 23).
Are you running away from sinful impulses, or are you content to dwell with them in your life? What should you run from today? Note especially that this is not something for only the young to consider. We may be tempted by youthful passions at any age.
Instead, wrap yourself in faith, love, and peace. Invest in them. Know that these come from Jesus who has made the deposit of them in your heart.
We’re commanded to flee from youthful passions. Young Timothy would have heard this and understood that with youth comes zeal and passion. We who are getting older might remember our days when we had fresh energy and strength. Not all of that passion is good! Paul refers here to sinful impulses, foolish behaviors, and perhaps sexual immorality. He urges us to “have nothing to do with foolish … arguments, because you know they produce quarrels” (v. 23).
Are you running away from sinful impulses, or are you content to dwell with them in your life? What should you run from today? Note especially that this is not something for only the young to consider. We may be tempted by youthful passions at any age.
Instead, wrap yourself in faith, love, and peace. Invest in them. Know that these come from Jesus who has made the deposit of them in your heart.
Scripture Focus
2 Timothy 2:22-23
Insight
Lord, please uproot my youthful passions. Grant peace as I fight against sin and my selfish desires. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Bible In A Year
- Jeremiah 7-8
- Psalm 107
- Romans 5-6
