Running away, in the biblical context, often involves fleeing from danger, responsibility, or divine calling. The Bible provides several accounts of individuals who ran away, each with unique circumstances and lessons.

Jonah

One of the most notable instances of running away is the account of Jonah. God commanded Jonah to go to Nineveh and preach against its wickedness. However, Jonah attempted to flee from the presence of the Lord by boarding a ship to Tarshish. Jonah 1:3 states, "But Jonah got up to flee to Tarshish, away from the presence of the LORD. He went down to Joppa and found a ship bound for Tarshish. So he paid the fare and went aboard to sail for Tarshish, away from the presence of the LORD." Jonah's attempt to escape God's command led to a series of divine interventions, including a great storm and being swallowed by a great fish. Ultimately, Jonah's account illustrates that one cannot escape God's will and highlights the importance of obedience.

Hagar

Hagar, the Egyptian maidservant of Sarah, also ran away due to harsh treatment. After conceiving Abraham's child, Hagar faced mistreatment from Sarah and fled into the wilderness. Genesis 16:6-7 recounts, "Your servant is in your hands,” Abram said. “Do whatever you want to her.” Then Sarai mistreated Hagar, so she fled from her. The angel of the LORD found Hagar by a spring of water in the desert—the spring along the road to Shur." The angel of the Lord instructed Hagar to return and submit to Sarah, promising her numerous descendants. Hagar's experience underscores God's care and provision even when one feels compelled to flee.

David

David, before becoming king, experienced multiple instances of running away, primarily to escape King Saul's attempts on his life. In 1 Samuel 19:10 , it is recorded, "Saul tried to pin David to the wall with his spear, but David eluded him, ran away, and escaped that night." David's flight was not out of disobedience but rather a means of survival. Throughout his time on the run, David demonstrated reliance on God, seeking His guidance and protection. His psalms often reflect his trust in God's deliverance during these times of distress.

Onesimus

In the New Testament, Onesimus, a runaway slave, is a significant figure. He fled from his master Philemon and encountered the Apostle Paul, who led him to Christ. Paul later wrote to Philemon, urging him to receive Onesimus not as a slave but as a beloved brother. Philemon 1:15-16 states, "For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a while, so that you might have him back for good—no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a beloved brother." Onesimus's account highlights themes of redemption, forgiveness, and transformation through Christ.

Moses

Moses fled Egypt after killing an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew slave. Fearing for his life, he escaped to Midian. Exodus 2:15 records, "When Pharaoh heard about this, he tried to kill Moses. But Moses fled from Pharaoh and settled in the land of Midian, where he sat down beside a well." Moses's flight marked the beginning of a transformative period in his life, leading to his eventual calling by God to deliver the Israelites from bondage. His account illustrates how God can use even our failures and fears to prepare us for His purposes.

Application

The accounts of running away in the Bible serve as reminders of God's sovereignty and faithfulness. Whether fleeing from fear, danger, or divine calling, these accounts reveal that God is present and active in the lives of those who run. They encourage believers to trust in God's plan, seek His guidance, and remain obedient to His will, even in challenging circumstances.