- Acts 14:5-7 (NKJV) And when a violent attempt was made by both the Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to abuse and stone them, 6 they became aware of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding region. 7 And they were preaching the gospel there.
Paul was no coward. Even a cursory reading of the scriptures will show that. However, in the words Kenny Rogers, Paul knew when to “hold ‘em and he knew when to fold ‘em.” Today’s bible verses record one of those occasion that Paul folded and got out dodge to live and preach another day.
Sometimes the wisest thing you can do is run. Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is not take the bait, keep your mouth shut and wait for a better opportunity. Sometimes all the cards are stacked against you and barring a miracle, it just ain’t going to happen this time.
Running doesn’t have to mean you’re quitting. Running doesn’t mean you are necessarily a coward. Running can reveal that you are wise. Running can mean that you have something to live for that is greater than the issue at hand. Running can mean that you are running towards a greater opportunity to serve the cause of Christ.
Sometimes taking a stand – live or die – is required. Sometimes running in order to live to fight another day is the best course. Wisdom is knowing the difference.
But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. (1 Timothy 6:11)
The ONE THING 
Your dad has a sermon using Joseph as an example of one fleeing youthful lust. He would say, “She may have got Joseph’s coat, but she didn’t get Joseph.”
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Amen! I remember hearing dad talk about that 🙂
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