“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 a calling for every believer. 1 Peter 1:15-16 exhorts us to be holy in all our conduct, reflecting the holiness of God who has called us. Holiness means being set apart, living in a way that is pleasing to God and distinct from the patterns of this world.
Reflect on your own pursuit of holiness. Are there areas of your life that need to be more aligned with God’s will? Holiness involves not just avoiding sin but actively seeking to live a life that honors God. It’s about being intentional in our actions, thoughts, and words, striving to reflect God’s character in everything we do.
The pursuit of holiness requires discipline and commitment. It involves renewing our minds with God’s Word, resisting the temptations of the flesh, and choosing to follow God’s ways even when it’s challenging. It’s a process of growth and transformation, as we allow the Holy Spirit to work in us, conforming us to the image of Christ.
Holiness also involves separating ourselves from anything that hinders our relationship with God. This might mean letting go of habits, relationships, or attitudes that lead us away from Him. It’s about prioritizing God above all else and dedicating ourselves to His purposes.
As you seek to live a holy life pleasing to God, remember that it’s not about perfection but about progress. God is patient with us and is continually working in us to bring about His holiness. Trust in His grace and rely on His strength as you pursue a life that is pleasing to Him.
Prayer:
Lord, You have called me to be holy, just as You are holy. I desire to live a life that reflects Your character and honors You in all that I do. Help me to pursue holiness with diligence and to be set apart for Your purposes. Cleanse my heart and mind from anything that hinders my relationship with You, and transform me by the renewing of my mind. Give me the strength to resist temptation and to walk in Your ways. Thank You for Your grace that empowers me to live a holy life. Amen.
Verses to Meditate On:
- Hebrews 12:14 (NKJV)
“Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.” - Leviticus 19:2 (NKJV)
“Speak to all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say to them: ‘You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy.’” - 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 4:24 (NKJV)
“And that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.” - 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.”
