HomeWord - July 30, 2012

 A Hunger for Holiness

This devotional was written by Jim Burns

As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy." —1 Peter 1:14-16

Every Christian is called to live a life of holiness. I'm afraid I've been guilty of wanting spectacular results in my Christian life but giving only a mediocre effort. Nobel prizewinner Mother Theresa put it best when she said, "Our progress in holiness depends on God and ourselves, on God's grace and on our will to be holy."

Pray today for a hunger for holiness. Holiness means setting apart or purity. Holiness is the everyday business of every Christian. It evidences itself in the decisions we make and the lifestyle we live, hour by hour, day by day. Andrew Murray said, "The starting point and the goal of our Christian life is obedience." Through obedience to God and His Word, your life will become more holy. The goal to live a life of holiness is a lifelong process of sanctification and spiritual maturity.

Some people never strive to become mature believers. The first step of holiness is a willingness to be obedient. The result of holiness is a fuller and deeper life with God. Jesus put it this way: "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled."

GOING DEEPER:

1. What challenge does 1 Peter 1:14-16 give you as a Christian?

2. Do you have a hunger for holiness? God’s desire is for you to be holy as He is holy. He'll do His part; will you do yours?

FURTHER READING:

 Romans 12:2 ;  2 Corinthians 7:1 ;  1 Thessalonians 4:7 ;  Leviticus 11:44-45

Sign up here for Parenting Resources and other HomeWord publications.