Saved by Grace

The bible clearly states that as believers, we must live a holy life. In fact, Hebrews states without holiness, no man shall see the Lord. There is so much deception and confusion today about what it truly means to be holy. We have such polarizing views of holiness. There are some who think they can live however they want and be called holy, and then there are some who think holiness is only an outward appearance or some works-based achievement. To truly live a holy life, we must understand first what holiness really means and why it matters to God.

God has always called his people to be different. Holiness is not an optional lifestyle for believers—it is God’s standard for his children. Holiness does not mean perfection in human strength. It means being separated from sin/the world and dedicated to God. A holy life reflects the character of Christ in our thoughts, actions, speech, and choices. To be holy means to be set apart or sanctified, consecrated, and dedicated to God. In the Old Testament, vessels in the temple were holy because they were set apart for God’s use. In the same way, believers are called to be vessels God can use. “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation.” — 1 Peter 1:15. Holiness affects our speech, our conduct, our relationships, our entertainment, our attitudes, and our private lives. God wants holiness in every area of our lives.

Why is holiness important? Because God is holy. His nature is holy. Isaiah 6:3 says, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts.” When we pursue holiness, we become more like Him. Holiness is not about legalism; it is about resemblance. My son not only has certain physical features of mine, but he very much has my behavioral characteristics, just like we should resemble Jesus as our father. A holy life keeps the channel of communication open between us and God. Isaiah 59:2 says, “Your iniquities have separated between you and your God.” You cannot walk closely with God while embracing a sinful living.

How do we live a holy life? Stay connected to God daily. Holiness grows through a relationship with God – through prayer, fasting, repentance, bible reading, and worship. The more time we spend with God, the more we become like him. To maintain a holy life, we must walk in the spirit and guard what enters our minds. “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world…” — Romans 12:2. Be careful about music, entertainment, social media, conversations, and other influences that are not edifying or Godly. What feeds the flesh weakens the spirit, and Galatians 5:16 says, “Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.”

Holiness is still possible today. Some people say holy living is outdated or impossible, but God would never command something that he would not empower us to do. The Holy Spirit gives believers strength to overcome temptation and live differently from the world. Ask yourself today, are there areas of compromise in your life that are hindering you from truly living a holy life? What must you surrender? Holiness begins with a daily decision to take up your cross and follow him. He will help you to live a holy life.