By: Ro Beacham
“But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct since it is written, Be holy, for I am holy.”
1 Peter 1:15-16 (ESV)
Can we really live a holy life? The answer is yes! Living holy is intentional.
Early in my faith journey, I wanted to please God so badly. I was doing everything I thought I needed to do to earn God's love and approval. It was my brokenness that led me to believe I needed to earn His love. I needed to be a good Christian so He would accept me and love me. As I grew in my faith journey, I learned that there is nothing I could "Do" to earn more love and acceptance. God wants a relationship with us more than anything.
"But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct since it is written, Be holy, for I am holy.”
1 Peter 1:15-16 (ESV)
The word holy can sound like a big word. It was a big word for me. I was all kinds of messed up, and I didn't think I would ever be good enough to meet the standard. Well, what I thought was the standard. I interpreted holiness as perfection. As I continued to grow my relationship with God daily in prayer, worship, and bible study, He began to heal the broken places. My relationship with Him continued to grow, and my heart started to change. I longed to please God with my life in such a different way. I was no longer trying to see how much I can "DO"; now I want to be all that he wants me to "BE". My heart's desire now is to allow my life to be a reflection of His character.
What does living a holy life mean?
Being Set Apart
The Hebrew word for holy is set apart. Holy living is living a life that is set apart for God. We are called to live differently, not blending into the world. Holy living is living in a way that glorifies God.
Obedience
Obedience is a key part of holy living. John 14:15 (NIV) “If you love me, keep my commands."
Partial obedience is still disobedience.
Choosing Holiness Daily
Holiness is a daily walk. Resisting sin, seeking God, and pursuing what pleases Him. Choosing to honor God in our thoughts, words, and actions. Some days may be harder than others. Every day is a new opportunity to grow.
Holiness Doesn't Mean Perfection
None of us gets it right every time. Holiness doesn't mean never messing up. It means being quick to repent, staying close to God, and letting Him shape us over time. Holiness is not about being perfect; it's about being faithful.
So can we live a holy life? Yes, we can! Not in our own strength but through the power of the holy spirit. To live a holy life is to walk in alignment with God's will, to be set apart for His purpose, and reflect His character in every area of life. One step, one day, one choice at a time,