What comes to mind when you hear the word holy? Do you feel you have a complete understanding of the word? The word “holy” can be confusing to some if they have the wrong view of it.
I have heard it used to describe a lot of things, and most of those things do not warrant the use of the word.
Holy is described in the dictionary as: “exalted or worthy of complete devotion as to one perfect in goodness and righteousness.”Or another definition is “devoted entirely to God as to the work of God.”
In 1 Peter chapter 1 verses 13-16, the Bible addresses a call to holy living. The verses state:
“Therefore, get your minds ready for action, being self-disciplined and set your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children do not be conformed to the desires of your former ignorance but, as the One who called you is holy, you are to be holy in all your conduct; for it is written, “Be holy, because I am holy.”
We, as born-again believers, are to conduct our behavior in a reflection of our devotion to a holy God. Let me be the first to admit that I am a work in progress! I desire to please Him with my life, but I know I fall short. But I am truly devoted to Him and will continue to receive His grace daily and seek to live a life trying to honor Him.
I believe that when we obey Him and set our hearts to please Him, our lives should look different from the rest of the world! Many people try to find peace by chasing happiness, but there is an error in this. We should be chasing holiness! True peace can only be found when we look to live a life of complete devotion to God.
I can tell you that there is a void inside us that can only be satisfied when we decide to let Jesus have our whole heart. When we allow Him to have our hearts, we will desire to live for Him with a life of holiness. In order to do this, we must do as the writer of Romans states:
“Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, this is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing perfect will of God.” Romans 12:1-2
If we are to hold to a devoted life, we must,
“….lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us, and run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the perfecter of our faith..” Hebrews 12: 1b-2b
I know in my own life when I look to Jesus in times of spiritual reflection and ask Him “to search me God and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the everlasting way,” He is faithful to instruct me so that I can honor Him and do more of what makes me holy!
Amanda Patterson
Lean into Jesus Ministries
#amandapattersonblogs