In one of the Transformers movies even Shia Labeouf used a line we’ve all heard: “If you keep doing the same things the same way it’s stupid to think you’ll get different results.”  That principle applies to every area of life: health, finances, marriage, parenting, relationships with people and/or God, etc.

So, what are you pursuing.  In Andy Stanley’s incredible book – The Principle of the Path – he says that most of us know the best routes to take, but alternate routes are POWERFULLY APPEALING !  He says most of us don’t have problems to fix, we have “directions that need to change.” 

As I read 1 Timothy 6 this morning, verse 11 reminded me of some pursuits I need to cultivate consistently in my life.  The direction of my life needs to be toward these things – not away from them.  Here’s the last part of the verse:  “pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness.”

Here are the takeaways for me from this verse.

1. I need to pursue character – to be a person with the right attitudes and actions – one who is just, gracious & innocent – a person of integrity with men & God.

2. I need to pursue devotion to God with absolute abandon and be in awe of Him every day.

3.  I need to pursue a life of conviction based on the truth of Jesus Christ.

4.  I need to pursue love the way God defines it & demonstrate a life of grace, giving & generosity.

5.  As I pursue Christ I need to develop a cheerful/grateful attitude even when I have to endure difficult times.

6.  I need to pursue humility – choosing to bring my strength(s) under the control of Christ and demonstrate a gentle spirit with people.

Your takeways may not be the same – but the question remains – what are your actual pursuits?