I find myself stumped sometimes in these moments feeling like I do not know how to respond. I might think of something later, but in the moment, I think I am surprised and go blank.
Recently, this kind of conversation had me pondering holiness and what causes us to veer away from it. Our culture's pursuit of "I want what I want, when I want it" mentality has me stumped and well quite honestly very sad. Don't get me wrong. It isn't because I think I am holier. I know I AM NOT! I have had my own moments of pursuing what I wanted without any thought to the consequences and then reaped the suffering that came at my own hand.
My grief comes from knowing the consequences of thinking, "I am okay" when I was not and truly wishing someone would have intervened for me.
So, this morning I sat in the pursuit of holiness and the importance of it. I am hoping to convey the gift and beauty. Honestly, I recognize that my lists will not do anything for the one that is not seeking holiness. In fact, it will feel like death. But, for the one that truly has a heart to turn to God and pursue Him and righteousness it will bring life.
I am hoping that it will help this one. Maybe it be you. As for me, it was a beautiful reminder of why I long for the mind of Christ to be made known in me.
What does it mean to be holy as I am holy? (Lev. 11:44; 1 Peter 1:15-16)
In Hebrew, the word "holy" means to be set apart for a purpose. Holiness is about an active pursuit of God and reflecting His character. It is about moving forward in obedience in every area of your life.
Interestingly, what we worship impacts our holiness because we become what we worship.
What we worship is a reflection of our inner being. So, we must ask ourselves, “What am I becoming?”
Because our holiness begins internally and what is internal will become how we become externally. It will affect every relationship.
We must remember that holiness is not about rules, laws, or regulations as much as it is the pursuit of God and allowing the mind of Christ to become the formation of our character. IF our mind is on becoming more like Christ, we are less likely to pursue the things of this earth.
This is not about a life of perfection, but of pursuit. It is about growing, knowing, learning, and leaving behind that which will hinder our ability to reflect His glory. The fun and crazy part is that when we start to get our focus on Him, these things begin to bring about a change in us that we are not even aware. Without realizing it our minds are changing and we become surprised by the Mind of Christ in us! Pure JOY!
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