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Main Idea: Living Out Holiness

We are called to be like God by being active in our goodness. We said earlier that holiness in the Bible means "set apart". This has two sides to it: to be set apart from our former sins, but also set apart to good works.

God’s people are called to do good works. We are called to go into the whole world and demonstrate what our God is like. We are called to love others as ourselves, even when they are hard to love. We are called to be patient with people who don’t deserve it. We are called to be generous beyond what is normal. We are called to imitate our Heavenly Father in front of the world. And we’re not supposed to be embarrassed about it.

To do this, God gives us two key aids. First, His Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 6:11 (ESV) says, “You were washed, you were sanctified… by the Spirit of our God.” The Holy Spirit, like a coach, guides you daily, helping you say no to sin and yes to God’s way. Not only that, but He is the source of supernatural power that enables you to fight temptation and choose goodness. Second is the word of God, the Bible. John 17:17 (ESV) says, “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.” Reading the Bible is like getting a letter from your Dad, showing you how to live. Furthermore, Jesus compared the word of God to physical food. When you read the Bible, your spirit, the part of you that wants to be holy, gets fed and strengthened.

Of course, you can’t be holy on your own. But you’re not on your own. Your Heavenly Father has given you all you need. Your elder brother, Jesus, is cheering you on. The Holy Spirit lives within you. And you’re meant to do it within the community of the Church.

Reflection Questions:

• How can you rely on the Holy Spirit and God’s word to guide you in making choices that reflect God’s character?
• What are some practical ways you can demonstrate God’s love, patience, and generosity to those around you, even when it’s challenging?