God has called us to Himself, and He is holy; therefore, we should be holy. God’s holiness is an essential part of His nature. “God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5). Any holiness that we have in character and conduct must be derived from Him. Basically, to be “sanctified” means to be “set apart for God’s exclusive use and pleasure.”

It involves separation from that which is unclean and complete devotion to God. We are to be holy “in all manner of conversation [behavior],” so that everything we do reflects the holiness of God.

To a dedicated believer, there is no such thing as “secular” and “sacred.” All of life is holy as we live to glorify God. Even such ordinary activities as eating can be done to the glory of God. If something cannot be done to the glory of God, then we can be sure it must be out of the will of God.

The Bible says: “As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance … so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, ‘Be ye holy, for I am holy’” (1 Peter 1:14-16).

Also read: 1 Corinthians 6:14-7:1; 1 Peter 2:1, 5, 9; 3:11-12, 14.

Action assignment: Write out your understanding of the idea of being a holy person. Talk with God about helping you maintain a consistent, holy lifestyle.

WARREN W. WIERSBE
www.backtothebible.in