Why We Run — Running From Ourselves
Big Idea:
We often run from what’s uncomfortable inside us—fear, shame, responsibility—because facing ourselves feels risky. But avoidance doesn’t heal what’s broken; it deepens the fracture.
Key Shift:
From hiding → honest awareness
About This Message:
Most of us don’t think of ourselves as runners. We think we’re just busy, distracted, overwhelmed, or waiting for the right moment. But running doesn’t always look like leaving—it often looks like staying busy, staying silent, or staying numb.
This message traces the instinct to run back to the very beginning of the Bible, where fear—not rebellion—first drove humanity into hiding. And yet, even there, God moves toward the hiding place, asking not a location question but a relational one: “Where are you?”
Running promises relief, but it never delivers healing. The good news is that God doesn’t shine light to shame us—He shines light to lead us home.
Practice:
Pay attention to where you’re tempted to run.
Discussion Questions:
Where do you tend to hide when life feels uncomfortable—emotionally, relationally, or spiritually?
Why do you think fear often leads us to avoid rather than face reality?
In Genesis 3, God asks, “Where are you?” Why do you think God asks questions He already knows the answer to?
What would it look like to practice honest self-awareness instead of self-protection this week?
How does knowing that God seeks us change the way you think about your struggles?