Wrong Way on a One-Way Street May 24 2026

This message centers on a fundamental question we all face as we step into new chapters of life: how do we move forward successfully in God's way? Drawing from 2 Timothy 2:22, we're given a remarkably simple yet profound formula for spiritual success—run away from the bad, run toward the good, and do it with the right people. The imagery is striking: we're not called to casually stroll away from temptation or politely decline sin's invitation. Instead, we're to flee with the urgency of someone whose life depends on it—because it does. The message reminds us that sin is predatory, actively hunting us like a lion seeking to devour. Through the story of Joseph fleeing Potiphar's wife, we see this principle in action—sometimes the best defense is simply to run. But running from evil is only half the equation. We must also pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace with the same intensity. These aren't passive virtues that accidentally happen to us; they require focused, intentional pursuit. What's particularly insightful is the sequential nature of these pursuits: the more we live rightly with God, the better we know Him; the better we know Him, the more we trust Him; the more we trust Him, the more we love Him; and the more we love Him, the more peace we experience. This isn't just good advice for graduates—it's a blueprint for anyone seeking to live the 'with God' life successfully.