Be Holy
In 1 Peter, we are told that we are to be holy because God is Holy. So, what does that look like? As obedient children, we are not to conform to our former lusts, but to be holy in all our conduct. How then do we walk that out?
We first have to see sin as God sees it, coming short of what He requires. But, God, I'm just human! Yes, but as a child of God, a born again believer, we have the indwelling Holy Spirit, and we are to live for Him! Paul said it this way in Galatians: "I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me."
Which brings us a new question. What must I do with my sin? David tells us that in Psalm 51, and we have to recognize and realize our sin. People can tell us all day that we committed a sin, but until God points it out we will hide it, allow it, and not stop it. But when God shows us the sin, our job is repentance. Cry out to God for mercy since sin deserves death! Admit it, beg Him for forgiveness.
Here's the thing, repentance, holiness, surrender, brokenness - these aren't words that we hear every day. But if we look at God's Word long enough, thoroughly enough, we will notice a pattern of repentance and restoration. Are we willing? Do we desire holiness?
The Cross gave us mercy, gave us forgiveness, gave us eternal life, righteousness - but we have to continually be on guard against letting "little" sins be ignored. Gossip, lying, theft........ We must confess them all. We must ask forgiveness from the God of mercy and grace. And He willingly grants it.
It is said that judgement comes first to the house of God, that means Christians. You and me. When the lost see our repentant hearts - perhaps they would wish to know more about Christianity. Why would they want Christianity if they see no difference in our lives? Maybe be holy partly means be different. Do people see me as different? Maybe they need to see a life lived for God, a life desiring holiness. Maybe they need to see someone who loves like Him. Maybe revival could happen if we made that declaration. Joel said it this way, turn to Me with your whole heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning. Rend your heart, not your garments; return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful......
Be Holy.
We first have to see sin as God sees it, coming short of what He requires. But, God, I'm just human! Yes, but as a child of God, a born again believer, we have the indwelling Holy Spirit, and we are to live for Him! Paul said it this way in Galatians: "I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me."
Which brings us a new question. What must I do with my sin? David tells us that in Psalm 51, and we have to recognize and realize our sin. People can tell us all day that we committed a sin, but until God points it out we will hide it, allow it, and not stop it. But when God shows us the sin, our job is repentance. Cry out to God for mercy since sin deserves death! Admit it, beg Him for forgiveness.
Here's the thing, repentance, holiness, surrender, brokenness - these aren't words that we hear every day. But if we look at God's Word long enough, thoroughly enough, we will notice a pattern of repentance and restoration. Are we willing? Do we desire holiness?
The Cross gave us mercy, gave us forgiveness, gave us eternal life, righteousness - but we have to continually be on guard against letting "little" sins be ignored. Gossip, lying, theft........ We must confess them all. We must ask forgiveness from the God of mercy and grace. And He willingly grants it.
It is said that judgement comes first to the house of God, that means Christians. You and me. When the lost see our repentant hearts - perhaps they would wish to know more about Christianity. Why would they want Christianity if they see no difference in our lives? Maybe be holy partly means be different. Do people see me as different? Maybe they need to see a life lived for God, a life desiring holiness. Maybe they need to see someone who loves like Him. Maybe revival could happen if we made that declaration. Joel said it this way, turn to Me with your whole heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning. Rend your heart, not your garments; return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful......
Be Holy.
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