"Be Holy"

"Be holy, because I am holy" Leviticus 11:45

We have all heard this verse quoted many times I am sure. But what exactly does it mean to "be holy"? Holy means to be "set apart, consecrated for the Lord". Simply put, holy means to be different from the world. If we are not different from the world in our actions and our attitudes, we are not holy.

The entire book of Leviticus instructs the Israelites on how to be holy. I am not suggesting that we are to live by the entire Levitical code, however it is a good book to read to begin to grasp the holiness of God. An interesting fact about that book is that all the laws that are given to them regarding holiness were not given so that the Israelites could have a relationship with God. They were already in relationship with God because He had chosen them to be His people. The laws were given to them so that they could maintain their relationship with God.

The same is true for us today. When we accept Christ, we are in relationship with God. Through God's mercy, the righteousness of Christ is given to us, but holiness must be acquired. Holiness is something that we must work at daily by seeking God and His will. We do this not to have a relationship with God, but in order to maintain it. I have heard it said that we will never "drift into holiness". And this is true.

A holy life will always be characterized by obedience. Let's all ask ourselves, "Where do I fall short?"