In the film Forrest Gump, Jenny’s advice for her friend remains constant throughout, “whenever you find yourself in trouble Forrest, just run away as fast as you can.” As for Jenny, this was similar to her childhood prayer, “please God, make me a bird so that I can fly far, far away.” Initially, God answered her prayer, being set free from the sexual abuse of her father as the state gave her grandmother guardian status. However, there are certain things like Soul Spirit hurts which you can’t run from as memories follow you wherever you go.
Meanwhile, Forrest Gump found safety, success and solitude from physically running. Fleeing from bullies, Forrest realized that he could outran people riding bikes, especially through grassy areas. Once safe from harm, Forrest fell in love with running, using it as his main mode of transportation. This passion led to a college scholarship, success in the military and solitude when he struggled to find meaning in life. Thus, Jenny’s advice worked much better for Forrest than for her, becoming the motto for his life.
In the spiritual world, fleeing from the devil is great advice, demonstrated by Jesus in Matthew 4:10. The apostle Paul added to this concept, referring to running away from a desire to do things in secret, at night when the mind thinks God can’t see you, Romans 12:11-14. The most vocal of the 12 disciples added his own 2 cents as well, recognizing the power of the devil and the need to just run away, 1 Peter 5:8-9. Finally, Jesus’ earthly brother provides one last reminder with a promise, “if you submit yourself to God, the devil with flee,” James 4:7. Don’t just run away like Jenny; rather run into the loving arms of God the Father who is waiting for all prodigals to come home, Luke 15:20.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 