Our current civilization accepts sin as normal. For
instance, we live together in sin because it is accepted in our society, but it
is not accepted in God's society. We white wash our sinful behavior and are not
fit for the presence of God in our life (Matthew 23:27). Only holiness and trust in
God unite to make us effective ministers in God's Kingdom.
Our spirit vitally needs holiness for fulfillment. We
cannot walk in godliness without living in holiness (Matthew 5:6). Our spirit shrinks from
carnal behavior, which our soul - our mind, will and emotions - often pursues.
Through Sanctification, God's Spirit conforms us - body, soul and spirit - to
the purity of Christ Jesus, our Lord (Matthew 5:8).
There is no need for legalism, criticism or judgmentalism
in holiness. This is a private walk, not relying on human self-effort, but
simply the leading of God's Spirit with each individual. God may deal with you
to stop smoking as His first priority in your sanctification process; but in our
sister, He will deal with it last, because there are other issues in her life,
which He wants to deal with first.
God uses His Body as the hands, feet and heart of Jesus on
the earth (Matthew
5:16). Through an attitude of purity, we minister in love to those whom
God brings our way. The fruit, gifts and ministry of God's Spirit flow through
us to affect the world around us for Christ (Galatians 5:22-23; 1 Corinthians 12:8-10; Ephesians
4:7-13). With a heart fully dedicated to Jesus, we are used by God to
change our world.
Prayer:
Father God, Your family represents Your reputation on this
earth. Too many people claim membership in Your family and live for the devil.
This tarnishes Your name and Your effectiveness. Lead us to live in holiness
for Your name's sake (Psalm
23:3). Your justice is righteous, and we embrace Your discipline, which
causes us to hear Your loving kindness with each new morning (Psalm 143:8).
Thought for the Day:
Righteous living is possible to achieve in our life,
because it is birthed by God's Spirit in an ever increasing measure of holiness
within us.
