We hear the word "holy" in just about every sermon, podcast, or Christian book. But what is the true meaning of the word? The dictionary defines "holy" as: one of perfect goodness and righteousness, devoted entirely to the work of the deity, having a divine quality.
So how does holiness apply to our hectic, 21st century lives outside of Biblical context? Well, the message is simple--we are called to be holy. Holiness means to be set apart for a noble use. Holiness means dying to our selfish desires of the flesh and pursuing a righteous life of purity. It means staying away from the things that are not beneficial for what we are created for. Holiness means obeying the Ten Commandments and God's callings for us. Holiness is putting others first, praying for our enemies, and treating strangers as we would want to be treated.
Is it really possible to achieve a state of holiness despite our sinful human nature? Well, yes. God tells us to be holy. He wouldn't have said it if it weren't possible.
"Since we have these promises, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates our body and our spirit, perfecting holiness out of respect for God."
-2 Corinthians 7:1
The best part is, although attaining holiness seems challenging, we can't do it by our own strength and determination--we must borrow God's. He is the ultimate transformer and is eager to take his children from broken to holy!
"God can do anything, you know--far more than you could ever imagine or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, His spirit deeply and gently within us."
-Ephesians 3:20-21 (The Message)
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