The verb pursue in the original language means “to seek after, to discover.” Consider Jesus’ parable about the Good Shepherd who left the ninety-nine to “seek after” the one who was lost. Jesus taught us that God pursues his children, and the proverb teaches his children what they should pursue.

Proverbs 21:21 teaches us to pursue righteousness, a right relationship with God. We are also to pursue kindness, the attitude that treats others as God would want us to treat them. In many ways, Proverbs 21:21 teaches us how to obey the commandment to “love one another.”

Righteousness and kindness are high priorities because God wants us to “find,” or pursue, the life he would want for us. God wants his children to be right with him and live a life that is a valuable witness to others. The key to living God’s priorities can be found in the verb pursue.

Sometimes we luck into situations that bring out our best behaviors. Other times we find ourselves in situations where we need to pursue godliness in order to live with God’s high standards. Seeking after God will help us live a righteous life that leads to honor.

I’m always fascinated watching a  television show about the discovery of a sought-after treasure submerged in an ocean for years. Indiana Jones is a favorite movie character because he stopped at nothing to get his hands on an archeological discovery. Most of us would want to pursue a treasure if someone gave us the map.

God’s word teaches us that, of all the things we can pursue in this life, righteousness and kindness should top our list. We should run after godliness as if it were a valuable treasure because, spiritually, it is. 

God’s priorities are wisdom. Another proverb teaches us to “get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding” (Proverbs 4:7 NIV). 

Will you pursue God’s wisdom for tomorrow?