A few years ago TRIVIAL PURSUIT was one of the most popular board games around. The winner had to be able to answer questions about geography, history, politics and many other topics. Trivial means insignificant or of little value and this pursuit still exists today in several areas of our society. In the secular arena, pursuits can be short-range or long-range goals, worthwhile or selfish. When one has goals of marriage, graduation, weight loss and career advancement, these are attainable with enough effort and perseverance. However, if folks are striving for vague and selfish objectives such as; wealth, strength, control, sex, beauty and fame, they will probably find frustration. The objectives one pursues on this earth are a moving target and subject to the whims of time and circumstances. Nearly everyone pursues affirmation, security, and respect, but even then they can often become an addiction and can escape one’s grasp unless they are considered a life-long quest with occasional joys and victories.
The Bible has many verses that mention things Christians should seek and pursue. “…Seek peace and pursue it.” (Ps 34:14) “…The Lord …loves those who pursue righteousness.” (Pr 15:9) “…pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.” (1 Tim 6:11) These goals have great rewards in the short-term and in the long-term. “…Fight the good fight of the faith… Take hold of the eternal life.” (1 Tim 6:13) “He who pursues righteousness and love, finds life, prosperity and honor.” (Pr 21:21)
All Christians should understand that the pursuit itself can be joyful. Even the Apostle Paul realized that the crown of life that awaits is worth pressing on and forgetting what is behind (Php 3: 12-14). Some of the Apostles spoke of this crown and the faith and perseverance necessary to obtain it. It is called the crown of glory that will never fade away (1 Pe 5:4). Paul calls it the everlasting crown of righteousness (1 Cor 9:5) (2 Tim 4:8). The crown will be for those that love God and persevere under trial (Jas 1:12). John adds that it may even lead to the point of death (Rev 2:10). Pursuing the material things which are seen may be trivial, but pursuing the unseen things is eternal (2 Cor 4:18).
-Jim Bailey