Christians talk about holiness a lot. Many people see it as a list of the do's and don'ts. But I see it as being set apart for God. Purifying ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit. It’s about being cleansed through Jesus’ sacrifice and seeking to do what is right so we can be washed of sin.
The thing is, why? Why do we want holiness? It’s great to talk about it, but what’s the point? Why is it so important for us to seek it?
Today’s passage gives two specific reasons we should purify ourselves and perfect holiness in our lives. First, it says “since we have these promises” we should purify ourselves. What promises? The promise of God’s presence with his people. The promise of God receiving us — despite all we’ve done, if only we’ll be set apart for him. The promise of adoption by the King of Kings.
The other reason today’s passage gives for holiness is reverence for God. If we understand God’s power and his love then we’ll understand the need to be holy. God cannot be around any sinful things. If we want to be near him — if we want those promises to be fulfilled — we must, through Christ’s sacrifice and the Holy Spirit's help, strive toward holiness out of love, honor, and respect for our Creator.
I admit, holiness can mean saying “no” a lot. But it also means saying “yes” to some pretty amazing things. Like salvation. And eternal life. I think it’s worth it, don’t you?
Lord, thank you for sacrificing your Son so that we might be purified and able to be holy. Thank you that I can have a relationship with you. Help me to live in a mindset of “yes” and with zeal for you instead of pining after what I say “no” to. Be glorified in me. Amen.
Go Deeper — Today, take time out to reflect on the ways you are striving to perfect holiness. What do you need to say “no” and “yes” to? Ask the Holy Spirit to help you boldly respond.
Photo Credit: Maria Shanina