that means to seek to accomplish a specific goal; it speaks of striving for something with a strong desire. This word describes the one who longs to step forward to serve God in the ministry. A building passion to preach the word burns within you. The other critical word Paul uses in this passage is “desire.” It is derived from the Greek word epithymeō, which means to have a strong desire to do or secure something. The meaning can be used either positively or negatively, depending upon its context.
Page 17