Holiness

Over recent weeks, we've journeyed together through themes of Sabbath, waiting on the Lord, and consecration. Today, Martin O’Brien calls us deeper into this journey by exploring holiness. We’re reminded that it’s all too easy to drift away from God’s presence, distracted by life’s demands, causing us to lose our focus on Him. Holiness, however, brings us back into alignment, helping us fix our eyes on the Lord.

Key Scripture: Romans 12:1-2

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Paul urges us to offer ourselves as "a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God." This is true worship, which leads to transformation, enabling us to discern God’s will. Holiness, therefore, isn’t about conformity to the world’s ways but rather being transformed through God’s renewing power.

Why Holiness?

As Hebrews 12:14 declares, "Without holiness, no one will see the Lord." This means we need to understand what it means to be holy. In Scripture, "holiness" (Greek: hagiasmos) speaks of being set apart, purified, and sanctified. Holiness is the natural outcome of consecration—living fully devoted to God, thinking as He thinks, loving what He loves, and setting His Word as the standard for our lives.

Martin asked us to consider: What standards do we live by? Do we measure our actions and values against God’s Word?

A Call to Holy Living (1 Peter 1:13-16)

In 1 Peter, we find practical steps toward living holy lives:

1. Think Clearly – Renew your mind (Romans 12:2) so transformation can occur.

2. Exercise Self-Control – Let Scripture guide your decisions, allowing Christ’s words to shape your choices.

3. Look Forward – Keep your focus on Jesus, with hope set on His future revelation.

4. Obey God – Commit to living a life of obedience, grounded in faithfulness.

5. Be Holy in Everything – Strive to let holiness permeate every part of your life.

Our Response

God calls us to be holy because He is holy. So, are we ready to consecrate ourselves fully to Him? This may mean returning if we have drifted away or realigning our focus if distractions have crept in. Today is an invitation to renew our dedication, allowing holiness to reshape us, and to live a life that reflects the character and love of God.

Questions for Reflection:

- What do you measure your life against?

- Have distractions taken your focus away from Jesus?

- Are you willing to consecrate yourself anew, seeking God’s holiness in every area of your life?

In response, may we commit to the journey of holiness, setting our eyes firmly on Jesus, living as His holy, transformed people.