In Pursuit of Holiness

“Do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy because I am holy’” (1 Peter 1:14-16).
 
This past Sunday, we studied the subject of holiness and were reminded of something important. God has called Christians to a life of holiness—and, yes, that is true for all of us. There are no exceptions to this calling and there are no exemptions from this calling. We need to put in focus what this calling means for us. I like what Jerry Bridges has written in his book The Pursuit of Holiness:

“This call to a holy life is based on the fact that God Himself is holy. Many Christians have what we may call a ‘cultural holiness.’ They adapt to the character and behavior pattern of Christians around them. As the Christian culture around them is more or less holy, so these Christians are more or less holy. But God has not called us to be like those around us. He has called us to be like Himself. Holiness is nothing less than conformity to the character of God.”

God is holy, but we, too, are to be holy (1 Peter 1:16). This means specifically and practically: We are to live wholly devoted to Him. This should be the daily and determined passion of every follower of Jesus. Our character and conduct should be exemplary. Our lives should be markedly different from those around us who are without Christ. This raises the question: Is your difference showing? Do your neighbors, fellow-workers, family and friends see in your life a stellar example of a life wholly devoted to God? This should be the goal in our life. The pursuit of holiness is worthy of our serious consideration!

Perhaps today, we should spend some time praying about this matter with the One who can make us different… All this to His glory!

Devotedly yours,
Pastor Ron