“There is no one holy like the LORD; there is no one
besides you; there is no Rock like our God."
1 Samuel 2:2
Are you searching for practical ways to pursue the holiness of God in your everyday life? Do you long to grow in your knowledge and understanding of God-not to just know of Him, but to know Him? Do you yearn to hear and discern the Holy Spirit's voice with more clarity, but not sure where to start?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this is an invitation for you to join us this year as we dive deeper into the Word. We will grow together in our knowledge and understanding of who God is, cultivate a more intimate relationship with Jesus, leading us to live a life that is led by the Holy Spirit. As we pursue holiness together, our lives and hearts will be transformed and we will become more aware of His presence, continually drawn to Him. In today's blog post, we will explore the concept of holiness and share practical tips to help you cultivate a deeper relationship with God.
Understanding the Holiness of God
Before we dive into practical ways to pursue holiness, it's important to understand what holiness truly means. Holiness is not just a set of rules or moral standards; it is a reflection of God's character and nature. In the Bible, we see that God is holy and calls His people to be holy as well. 1 Peter 1:13-16 says,
"Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy.'"
To be holy means to be set apart, dedicated to God's purpose, and separated from sin. It involves aligning our thoughts, words, and actions with God's truth and living a life that pleases Him. Pursuing holiness is not about being perfect or earning God's favor, but rather about responding to His love and grace by living in obedience to Him.
Why Pursue the Holiness of God?
You may wonder why it is important to pursue the holiness of God in our everyday life. The pursuit of holiness is not just for the "religious people" or pastors; it is a calling for every believer. We are called to live lives that are set apart and different from the world around us. When we pursue holiness, we experience a deeper intimacy with God and grow in our relationship with Him.
By pursuing holiness, we become more like Jesus. As we align our lives with God's truth, we are transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit. Our thoughts, attitudes, and actions begin to reflect the life of Jesus, and we become a witness to the those around us.
Additionally, pursuing holiness allows us to experience the abundant life that Jesus promised. When we walk in obedience to God, we are filled with joy, peace, and purpose. Our lives have meaning and significance as we fulfill God's plans and purpose for us.
Practical Ways to Pursue Holiness in Everyday Life
1. Cultivating a Heart of Repentance and Humility
A vital first step in pursuing holiness is cultivating a heart of repentance and humility. Recognizing our need for God's forgiveness and acknowledging our shortcomings opens the door for the Holy Spirit to work in our hearts and where transformation happens. If we desire to change, we must come before God with a contrite heart, confessing our sins and asking for His forgiveness.
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins
and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
1 John 1:9
Humility is also key in pursuing holiness. It involves recognizing that we are dependent on God's grace and acknowledging that He is the source of all goodness. It means surrendering our pride, selfishness, and self-sufficiency, and humbly submitting to God's will.
2. Seeking God through Prayer
Another practical way to pursue holiness is through prayer and mediating on His Word. Prayer is a powerful tool that allows us to communicate with God, pour out our hearts, and seek His guidance. Through prayer, we can express our desires, ask for wisdom, and seek strength to overcome temptation.
3. Meditating on God's Word
Meditating on God's Word is also key for pursuing holiness. As we meditate on Scripture, we allow God's truth to penetrate our hearts and transform our minds. It enables us to align our thoughts with God's thoughts and renew our minds according to His Word. If we do not know God's truths, we will not be able to combat the enemies lies and schemes, or discern the will of God. Romans 12:1-2 says,
"I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
4. Studying and Applying God's Word
Studying and applying God's Word is another crucial aspect of pursuing holiness. The Bible is a treasure trove of wisdom and a guidebook for living a holy life. By studying Scripture, it reveals to us the character of God and His desire for our lives.
However, studying God's Word is not enough; we must also apply it to our lives.
James 1:22 reminds us that we should not only be hearers of the Word but also doers.
"But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves."
As we study and apply God's Word to our daily lives, we begin to see transformation and experience the power of His truth as it shapes our thoughts, attitudes, and actions, leading us to live in a way that pleases Him.
5. Surround Yourself with Like-Minded Believers
It's important to surround yourself with like-minded believers who are also pursuing holiness. Iron sharpens iron, and being in community with other believers can provide encouragement, support, and accountability. Together, we can stir up on another in the pursuit of holiness and learn from one another's experiences.
"Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another."
Proverbs 27:17
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works,
not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging
one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Hebrews 10:24-25
6. Guarding Our Hearts and Minds
In our pursuit of holiness, we must be mindful of the influences we allow into our lives. We also must be intentional about fleeing from sin and temptation. This requires discernment and self-control. We should avoid situations, circumstances, and relationships that lead us toward temptation. Surrounding ourselves with positive and godly influences will help us stay focused on God and avoid the temptations of the world.
"Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life."
Proverbs 4:23
7. Practicing Gratitude and Praise
Practicing gratitude and praise is another practical way to pursue holiness. When we cultivate a heart of gratitude, we shift our focus from our problems to God's faithfulness. It helps us maintain a humble and thankful heart, even in difficult circumstances.
Praise is the natural response to a grateful heart. When we praise God, we acknowledge His goodness, power, and sovereignty. It lifts our spirits, aligns our hearts with His, and brings us into His presence.
"Oh come, let us sing to the LORD; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!
Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him
with songs of praise! For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods."
Psalm 95:1-3
The Transformative Power of Pursuing God's Holiness
As we pursue the holiness of God in our everyday lives, we will experience transformation. Our relationship with God will deepen, and we will become more like Christ. The pursuit of holiness is not always easy, but it is worth it.
Remember, pursuing holiness is not about perfection but about progress. It's about taking small steps each day to surrender our lives to God and allow Him to work in and through us. Living a life of holiness not only transforms our own personal lives but also our relationships and interactions with others. It gives us a sense of purpose and fulfillment that cannot be found anywhere else.
In Closing
As we reflect on the holiness of God, I encourage you to grab a journal that you can pull out each time and write out your quiet time with the Holy Spirit. By doing so, in time, you will be able to look back and see how God has been working in your life and be reminded of His faithfulness.
Reflective Quiet Time:
How does my understanding of God's holiness impact my daily life?
Am I living a life that reflects the holiness of God?
What practical steps can I take to cultivate holiness in my daily life more?
As you move through your quiet time, be aware of your thoughts and feelings. Any negative thoughts or feelings of shame, guilt, or condemnation you may be having....recognize those from the enemy of your soul, they are not from your Father God.
If you wrestling with any of these feelings now, I would like to pray for you,
Father,We come before you with hearts full of gratitude. I thank you for Your unending love and amazing grace. I thank you for the each heart that is seeking a deeper connection with you and a greater understanding of your holiness. In the powerful name of Jesus, I rebuke any influence of darkness and deceit that may be affecting those who are reading this blog as the Holy Spirit works in their lives and as they work through the reflective quiet time. I ask for Your divine protection and strength to break free from any lies or strongholds that may be hindering them of experiencing Your freedom, love, peace, forgiveness, and mercy. Lord, we acknowledge that the enemy seeks to deceive and hold captive those who are hungry and longing for Your truth. However, we stand firm in the knowledge and truth that the victory has already been won through Jesus Christ. Father, may Your abounding love and unwavering truth replace any falsehoods or doubts that have taken root in the hearts of Your children. Holy Spirit, fill them with Your courage to stand firm, remind them of Your faithfulness, and may they be strengthened by the power of Your word. I pray all these things in the powerful name of Jesus. Amen.Sweet friend,
You are His beloved, His precious daughter. You are dearly loved, fully accepted, and He is pleased with you. He delights in you!
May you be blessed with your time with Jesus and may we continually seek to grow in holiness, living lives that honor and glorify our holy God-together.
In His grace, truth, & love,
Jennifer