“But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, ‘Be holy, for I am holy.’” – 1 Peter 1:15-16 (NKJV)
Holiness is more than just a set of behaviors; it is a way of life that reflects the character of God. As believers, we are called to be holy, set apart for God’s purposes, and to live in a way that honors Him. This call to holiness is not about being perfect, but about pursuing a life that is pleasing to God.
In Hebrew the word for holy is the word Kadosh (קָדוֹשׁ). The word Kadosh literally means “holy” or “sacred.” In the Hebrew Bible, it is often used to describe God, sacred objects, or people who are set apart for a special purpose. The core idea of kadosh is separation or distinction from the ordinary or profane, being elevated to a higher, purer state.
The concept of holiness involves being set apart from the mundane or profane for a special, sacred purpose. This can apply to people, places, times, or objects. For example, the Sabbath (Shabbat) is considered kadosh because it is a day set apart from the rest of the week, dedicated to rest and spiritual reflection.
Holiness is a process that requires daily commitment. It’s about making choices that align with God’s will, rejecting sin, and embracing righteousness. This doesn’t mean we won’t struggle or stumble along the way, but it means that our hearts are oriented toward God and His ways.
In practical terms, holiness can be expressed in how we treat others, how we spend our time, and how we pursue God’s will. It might mean setting boundaries to avoid temptation, dedicating time to prayer and Scripture, or seeking forgiveness and reconciliation in our relationships. Whatever the specifics, the pursuit of holiness is about living in a way that honors God and reflects His character.
Today, reflect on what it means to be holy in your daily life. Are there areas where you are conforming to the patterns of this world rather than to God’s standards? Holiness involves a transformation of the heart and mind, a renewal that begins with surrendering our lives to God and allowing His Spirit to work within us.
As you seek to live a holy life, remember that God is with you, guiding and empowering you through His Spirit. He has called you to be holy, and He will give you the grace and strength to walk in that calling.
Prayer:
Lord, You have called me to be holy, just as You are holy. I acknowledge that on my own, I fall short, but I thank You for Your grace and the work of Your Spirit in my life. Help me to pursue holiness in all areas of my life, to turn away from sin, and to live in a way that honors You. Renew my mind, cleanse my heart, and guide my steps so that I may reflect Your character to the world around me. Thank You for calling me to be set apart for Your purposes, and for the strength You provide to walk in holiness. Amen.
Verses to Meditate On:
- Leviticus 20:7-8 (NKJV)
“Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, for I am the LORD your God. And you shall keep My statutes, and perform them: I am the LORD who sanctifies you.” - 2 Corinthians 7:1 (NKJV)
“Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” - Romans 12:1-2 (NKJV)
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” - Ephesians 4:22-24 (NKJV)
“That you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.” - 1 Thessalonians 4:7 (NKJV)
“For God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness.”
