Living a Holy Life: Embracing God's Call to Holiness

Just as priests in the Old Testament had specific tasks to perform, we, too, have a responsibility to seek God's guidance, study His Word, and live in obedience to His commands.

Living a holy life is a topic that has been discussed and debated for centuries. As Christians, we are called to be holy, just as God is holy. In this message, we will explore the concept of holiness and delve into the importance of embracing God's call to live a holy life. We will draw inspiration from various passages of Scripture and examine how we can apply these principles to our everyday lives.

In 1 Peter 2:9, we are reminded that as believers, we are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, and a holy nation. This powerful verse highlights our identity and purpose as Christians. We have been handpicked by God for this specific time in history. Despite the challenges and darkness that surround us, we can take comfort in the fact that God has equipped us to navigate these troubled times. We are chosen for a purpose, and with God's strength, we can fulfill that purpose.

As a royal priesthood, we have responsibilities to fulfill. While we no longer need an earthly priest to intercede on our behalf, we are called to be priests ourselves. This means that we have a direct line of communication with God and the privilege to approach His throne of grace boldly. However, being a priest also comes with duties and obligations. Just as priests in the Old Testament had specific tasks to perform, we, too, have a responsibility to seek God's guidance, study His Word, and live in obedience to His commands.

One practical way to fulfill our responsibilities as priests is by immersing ourselves in Scripture. The Bible serves as our instruction manual for living a holy life. It provides us with guidance, wisdom, and insight into God's character and desires for His people. Reading the Bible regularly allows us to grow in our understanding of God and His ways, helping us to become more effective in our priestly roles.

Another crucial aspect of living a holy life is bearing the holiness of God. In Exodus 28:36, we learn that the priests in the Old Testament wore a breastplate engraved with the words, "Holiness to the Lord." While we may not physically wear a breastplate, as believers, we carry the mark of holiness on our hearts. We are called to reflect the holiness of God in our thoughts, words, and actions.

Holiness is not something we can achieve on our own. It is a gift from God, bestowed upon us through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. By accepting His sacrifice and surrendering our lives to Him, we are clothed in His righteousness. As we walk in His holiness, we become living testimonies of His grace and love.

A holy life is not meant to be lived in isolation. We are called to proclaim the praises of God to a world in need of His love and salvation. As 1 Peter 2:9 reminds us, we are His own special people, called to declare His praises to those around us. Our lives should reflect the transformative power of God, drawing others to Him through our words and actions.

Living a life of holiness positions us as beacons of light in a dark world. When we consistently demonstrate God's love and character, even in the face of opposition and persecution, we have the opportunity to glorify Him. Our good works can serve as a powerful testimony, leading others to encounter the goodness and mercy of God.

The tale of the Magi is a familiar one, but let's zero in on their gifts—gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Each gift packs a punch with deep symbolism tied to Jesus' life and purpose. Gold isn't just bling; it acknowledges Christ as king. This was no subtle hint—the Magi were laying out red carpet treatment for an infant.

Frankincense goes beyond your average air freshener—it's about priesthood. In ancient rituals, priests burned this resin to send prayers skyward. So, by offering frankincense, these wise travelers tipped their hats to Jesus' role as our ultimate go-between with God.

Last up is myrrh—a strange baby shower gift since it's linked with death rites. Yet here lies a bold nod to Jesus’ sacrifice that would come later on. By bringing myrrh along for the ride, they recognized not only his royal status and priestly function but also his destiny at Calvary.

Living a holy life is not an easy task, especially in a world that often opposes the principles of God's kingdom. However, with God's help, we can strive towards holiness in our daily lives. Here are some practical steps we can take:

1. Immerse ourselves in Scripture: Make a commitment to read and study the Bible daily. Utilize Bible apps or resources like YouVersion or Olive Tree to guide you in your reading journey.
2. Seek God in prayer: Develop a consistent prayer life, setting aside dedicated time to commune with God and seek His guidance.
3. Surround yourself with a community of believers: Engage in fellowship with other Christians who can provide support, encouragement, and accountability on your journey toward holiness.
4. Identify areas of sin: Regularly examine your heart and life, identifying areas where sin may be present. Confess these sins to God and seek His forgiveness and transformation.
5. Practice self-discipline: Cultivate self-discipline in areas such as your thought life, speech, and actions. Strive to align your behavior with God's standards of holiness.
6. Guard your heart and mind: Be intentional about what you allow into your heart and mind. Avoid media or influences that promote ungodly values or temptations.
7. Serve others with love: Look for opportunities to serve others selflessly and sacrificially, reflecting the love of Christ in your actions.

Living a holy life is a lifelong journey. It requires intentional effort, reliance on God's grace, and a commitment to pursuing His standards of righteousness. As chosen and set-apart individuals, we have the responsibility to bear the holiness of God and proclaim His praises to the world. By embracing our identity as priests and following the practical steps outlined above, we can grow in holiness and become powerful instruments for God's kingdom. Let us strive to live a holy life, bringing glory and honor to our Heavenly Father.