Flee Also Youthful Lusts

by Candace
from Virtuous Daughters, October 2010~Volume 10, Number 7

“Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”—2 Timothy 2:22 A few weeks ago, I was pondering this verse, and hope that what I learned may be helpful to all of you.

The first thing that I was thinking about was why Paul used the word “flee.” To flee from something means to run away, to escape. The use of the word “flee” should help us to get an idea of how perilous youthful lusts are. We should not contemplate giving in to them or see how close we can get. There is danger: RUN AWAY!
 
You could think of youthful lusts as a poisonous snake. The first step is to know that they exist and be able to recognize them. Then, be watchful for temptations to fulfill your lusts. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”—1 Peter 5:8 When you are tempted to sin, don’t play with it. Don’t try to figure out how close you can get to it and still be safe. Rather, run to Jesus.
 
Youthful lusts are the desires that young people have for things that they should not or cannot have. God doesn’t just tell us what not to do, but also what to do instead of the forbidden thing (following youthful lusts). Instead of following youthful lusts, we need to follow righteousness, faith, charity, and peace.
 
Our companions should be those who seek the Lord, not those who try to twist His Word to fit their desires, excuse their sin, or give God lip service while living for the world. Friends who keep a clear conscience and encourage us to do the same are such a blessing.
 
God bless you, sisters!