Be Holy as I Am Holy: A Journey to Sanctification
In the book of Leviticus, God declares to the Israelites, "Be holy as I am holy" (Leviticus 11:45). This divine call to holiness is a central theme throughout Scripture, emphasizing the importance of living a life in accordance with God's character and commands.
What is Holiness?
Holiness, in the biblical sense, is not simply about external religious practices or rituals. It encompasses the entire being of an individual, including their thoughts, actions, and desires. Being holy means conforming to God's standards of righteousness, purity, and love.
Why Be Holy?
There are several reasons why God commands us to be holy:
- To reflect God's character: As created in God's image, we are called to imitate His holiness, demonstrating His attributes in our own lives.
- To draw near to God: Holiness creates a bridge between humanity and a holy God. By pursuing holiness, we align ourselves with His nature and experience His presence more fully.
- To live a fulfilling life: A holy life is characterized by purpose, meaning, and joy. It is in alignment with God's design for our existence.
How to Be Holy
Becoming holy is not an easy task. It requires a conscious and intentional effort to grow in our understanding of God and His ways. Here are some practical steps we can take:
- Study God's Word: The Bible is our primary source of instruction on how to live a holy life. By reading, meditating on, and obeying Scripture, we align our hearts with God's will.
- Prayer: Prayer is a vital tool for seeking God's help and guidance in our pursuit of holiness. Through prayer, we confess our sins, ask for forgiveness, and receive strength to overcome temptation.
- Fellowship with other believers: The church provides a community of support and encouragement for those seeking to live holy lives. Sharing our experiences, praying for one another, and studying God's Word together strengthens our commitment to holiness.
- Resist temptation: Temptation is a constant battle for all Christians. However, by relying on the power of the Holy Spirit, we can resist sin and choose obedience.
- Seek sanctification: Sanctification is the ongoing process of becoming more holy. It is not an instantaneous event but a journey that requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to surrender to God's work in our lives.
The call to "be holy as I am holy" may seem daunting at first. However, it is a privilege and a pathway to a life of purpose, meaning, and fulfillment. By following God's instructions and seeking His help, we can strive to live holy lives and reflect His character to the world.
