Spiritual growth is not only about becoming more knowledgeable. It is about becoming more like Christ. Holiness means being increasingly separated from sin and increasingly devoted to God. .
“But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation.”
— 1 Peter 1:15 (KJV)
And one of the clearest signs of becoming like Christ is growing in holiness.
When we first come to Christ, we may have habits, attitudes, and behaviors that do not reflect Him. But the Holy Spirit begins a process of transformation.
As we grow, things we once tolerated begin to trouble our conscience.
Places we once enjoyed may no longer appeal to us.
Words we once spoke casually may now convict us.
This is evidence that God is working in us.
Holiness does not mean that we never make mistakes. It means that we no longer make peace with sin.
A spiritually mature believer does not say, “Everybody does it.” Instead, they ask, “Does this please God?”
Growth in holiness means that we increasingly hate what God hates and love what God loves.
We must also understand that holiness is not a performance designed to make God love us. We pursue holiness because we already belong to Him.
Grace does not give us permission to remain unchanged. Grace gives us power to change.
The closer we walk with Jesus, the more His character becomes visible in us.
Reflection
-
Is there any habit I have accepted that God is asking me to surrender?
-
Am I becoming more sensitive to sin?
-
Does my private life reflect my public confession?
Prayer
Father, make me holy. Search my heart and reveal anything that does not please You. Give me strength to overcome sinful habits and the courage to make difficult changes. Let my private life honor You just as much as my public life. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Daily Declaration
I am growing in holiness.
Sin does not control me.
I desire what pleases God.
My thoughts, words, and actions honor Christ.
I am becoming increasingly like Jesus.
Amen.