September 4, 2023: You Be Holy!

"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." (1 Peter 1:15–16, ESV)

All New Testament writers write words of exhortation for their disciples/followers to put off every sin and attitude that is not Christ-like. It is only fitting that we seek to become like our Lord, holy. "Be holy for I, the Lord your God, am holy." (Lev 19:2; 20:7). That we be holy is important to God and has been from the Garden of Eden.
    
As he leads his followers, Peter gives them the same exhortation, "You shall be holy, for I am holy." Again, the message has to be in the messenger. His life must reflect the Kingdom in all that he says and does. His lifestyle must confirm the message that He carries on his inside. Paul also said this: "Don't you know that you are the temple of the Holy Spirit?" If the Spirit in you is holy, then the temple must also be holy. You cannot get fresh water out of salty springs. 
    
As ambassadors of Jesus Christ, we are vessels, with living water flowing out of us, refreshing a dying world. We cannot let our lives 'muddy up' the water. We must be clean vessels of His glory. Our lives must match our message! "He who called you is holy. Therefore we, too, must be holy."