by Sherelyn Mayberry
Synopsis: “But like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior” (1 Pet. 1:15).
In the song Take Time to Be Holy (PHSS # 598), the writer expresses many thoughts about fulfilling the commandment to be holy. He emphasizes the fact that it takes time. In Ephesians 5:15-16, the Scriptures teach us to walk carefully as the wise and make the most of our time. Effort and diligence are required for this holy walk. To be holy is to be like God (Lev. 11:44; 19:2; 1 Pet. 1:14-16). One who is consecrated, or sanctified, is set apart to God’s service and His purpose for humanity. We must make this goal a top priority.
How does one become holy? Speak to the Lord in prayer and ask Him to help you. As you abide in Him, He will aid you on this path to holiness (John 15:7). Abide in Him in His love by keeping His commandments (John 15:10). How do you know His commandments? Feed on His word given by the Holy Spirit, which will guide you to all truth (John 14:17). Then you can be clothed with Him in baptism (John 16:13; Gal. 3:27-29). This is the beginning of your walk in sanctification. Then, make friends of God’s children. Forming bonds with faithful Christians and relying upon God lift us up and provides strength to overcome evil (Eccl. 4:9-12). Also, a loyal friend will say what needs to be said (even when it hurts), thus exhorting us to greater holiness. When we or others face adversity and feel weak, brothers and sisters in Christ are there to build each other up (Prov. 17:17; 27:6). By choosing to obey God, you will receive a blessing from Him. He will bless you, keep you, and give you peace (Deut. 11:26-27; Num. 6:24-27).
How is time spent wisely? The reality is “you are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away” (Jas. 4:14). So, spend your life with Jesus who is revealed in God’s word. When Peter and John were arrested and brought before Annas and Caiaphas, Peter spoke of the salvation found only in Jesus. When the rulers observed the confidence with which he spoke, they were amazed and recognized that they had been with Christ. We must spend time with our Savior. Trust in His promises (Acts 4:10-13). Look to Jesus as your example. Strive to be like the Savior. Paul imitated Christ. Be like Paul (1 Cor. 11:1). Then, others will see your Christ-like example and you may positively affect them. Spend your life wisely. Do not walk in an unruly way, but act in a disciplined manner (2 Thess. 3:7). Walk in the love of Jesus by offering yourself in a living sacrifice of service (Eph. 5:2; John 13:5-15).
What is the effect of being holy? Holiness brings a peaceful calm into your heart. In anxious moments, pray and make requests with thankfulness. The avenue of prayer is open to holy individuals. If you walk in God’s paths, the peace of God will guard your thoughts and mind (Phil. 4:6-7). Also, the fruit of the Spirit will be evident in your daily life. Your attitudes will reflect self-control in putting away fleshly desires and living as the Spirit directs, set apart from the world (Gal. 5:22-25). Finally, you will be fitted for service for eternity. Those who are greatest will be servants like Jesus (Matt. 20:26-28; 23:11-12). Holiness teaches us to love our neighbor as ourselves, so through love we will serve one another (Gal. 5:13-14). A woman who is holy has eternity set in her heart and her lifetime is filled with doing good (Eccl. 3:11-12). Therefore, let us serve Almighty God with gladness and joy now, and anticipate experiencing the Lord’s lovingkindness in eternity (Ps. 100:2, 5).
