By Andrew Williams
“You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.” (Leviticus 19:2)
Good morning fellow disciples.
As followers of Christ, we are called to a life of holiness – to be set apart from the world and dedicated to the purposes of God. This call to holiness is not a suggestion, but a command that echoes throughout the Scriptures. In 1 Peter 1:15-16, we read, “but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy.'”
Holiness is not something that happens by accident or is automatically conferred upon us. It requires a conscious choice to pursue a life that reflects the character and nature of God. Just as God is set apart from all creation, we are called to be a people who live in a way that honors and glorifies Him. This means separating ourselves from the sinful patterns and value systems of the world and aligning our lives with the will and ways of our Heavenly Father.
Pursuing holiness is a lifelong journey, not a one-time event. It involves daily disciplines such as studying God’s Word, worshiping Him, and spending time in prayer. It also requires us to make difficult choices that put God’s priorities above our own. As we grow in our relationship with Christ, the Holy Spirit empowers us to live out this call to holiness in practical ways, such as cultivating the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and seeking to live at peace with all people (Hebrews 12:14).
The path to holiness is not without its challenges. We will inevitably face temptations and struggles with sin. However, the Scriptures assure us that God provides the grace and strength we need to overcome. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can put to death the deeds of the flesh and walk in obedience to God’s commands (Romans 8:13). As we choose to pursue holiness, we can find freedom and victory over the sin that so easily entangles us.
Pursuing holiness is not easy, but it is a worthy and essential pursuit for the Christian. When we choose to live set apart for God, we align our lives with His perfect and glorifying plan. We become beacons of His light in a dark world, and we experience the profound joy and peace that come from walking in right relationship with our Heavenly Father. So let us choose to pursue holiness, trusting in God’s grace and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit to guide us every step of the way.
Prayer: Father God, we humbly come before You, acknowledging our need to be set apart for Your purposes. Forgive us for the times when we have conformed to the patterns of this world, rather than pursuing the holiness to which You have called us. Fill us with a deep longing to reflect Your character and live in a way that honors and glorifies You.
Grant us the strength and wisdom to overcome temptation and put to death the deeds of the flesh. May our lives be a testament to Your transforming power, that others may see Your goodness and be drawn to the life-giving relationship found in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
