EMILY WICKHAM began her writing and speaking journey in 2005. She writes for Lifeway Christian Resources and enjoys serving the Lord as an author, speaker, and podcaster. She teaches via Indestructible Life, a podcast where women discover the life Jesus is and treasure the life God's Word gives. Emily also shares brief messages about the return of Christ on her YouTube channel. Please connect with Emily by subscribing below to her blog, Heart Stirrings.
Be Holy
“Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD your God am holy.” Leviticus 19:2, KJV
“Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:13-16
How can we be holy in today's culture? #christianity #holiness #spiritualgrowth Share on XDear Readers,
Recently I discovered Leviticus 19:2, which provides an Old Testament basis for God’s requirement of holiness. And I thought it was so interesting. Because God has desired holiness for His people all along—Old and New Testament saints. Yet He doesn’t command this attribute in us without exhibiting it in Himself first. I love how God leads by example.
How can we possess and exhibit holiness in today’s culture?
Surely that’s an age-old question, and our Lord Jesus Christ remains the answer. The more we know, love, and imitate Him, the holier we’ll become. I find this truth so encouraging since I could never attain a holy state without Him. As for a holy standing, Christ makes us holy at the moment of salvation. Isn’t that astonishing? I love Colossians 3:12, which refers to Christians as “chosen of God, holy, and beloved.” Despite the darkness in this world, we are holy, and we can be holy… in Christ.
Being holy means to be set apart and sacred.
It’s important to maintain a holistic view of what this quality looks like. Holiness within will enable us to exhibit holy behavior. In other words, as we aim for holiness in our thoughts and motives, desires and perspectives, and more, this inner holiness will translate into holy words and actions. The Lord Jesus Christ explained, “There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him: but the things which come out of him, those are they that defile him” (Mark 7:15). So let’s be mindful to consider our behavior, for it reveals what’s inside and indicates where we are on the “be holy” meter. Let’s be set apart and sacred on the inside and outside.
Jesus is coming soon.
Scripture instructs us to hope for the grace we’ll receive when Jesus is revealed. This verse in 1 Peter is followed by the command to be holy, which leads me to understand a couple of truths. Firstly, we’re inspired toward holiness when we realize the nearness of our Lord’s return. He could return for His bride any moment at the rapture, and Lord willing, He’ll find us living according to His Word. Secondly, I love that He’ll give grace when He’s revealed. Because being holy isn’t about trying harder and being perfect. We’re going to mess up and make mistakes. We’re going to sin. Yet our Lord is gracious, and His grace will wash over us when He’s revealed in glory.
Maranatha! Come quickly, Lord Jesus!
In Christ’s Love,
P.S. Please join me on my podcast, Indestructible Life, for the latest episode on the life of Joseph. Forgotten Places | Genesis 40 is available on your favorite podcast app as well as YouTube. May you be blessed.
Amen! Such inspiring words Ms. Emily. Thank you ma’am. It isn’t about who we are, but who He is. 🙂 Well said my friend.
Hi, J.D.,
Thanks so much. Glory to God – HE is awesome!
In Christ’s Love,
Emily