“Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord…” Hebrews 12:14

Holiness is such a difficult topic these days - I wonder why? You can see that the Lord would have us pursue (quest for, follow after, diligently seek) holiness. God clearly requires us to be obedient, to be set apart from worldly lusts and worldly standards. Don’t you agree? Then why such a problem about someone preaching these things? Does it make you uncomfortable - Why? This perhaps, is the more appropriate question. Apostles must preach the message of holiness and call the people to repentance. You must also be walking in holiness yourself!

As we proceed in our life of faith, the Master leads us by His Spirit, teaching us many things from His Word. A diligent son or daughter puts these principles into practice…. giving, serving, forgiving others, and asking for forgiveness when we are the offender. We learn to pray and stand against the wiles of the enemy. We learn to love God and to fear Him, knowing that He is both good and severe (Rom. 11:22). We also learn to love one another with self-sacrificing love. We shun legalism and embrace the cross, the way of grace, AND the pathway of holiness.

Nevertheless, what is the response to a message about holiness from those who do not obey, the ones who choose not to diligently practice the ways of God? I have heard them say, “Don’t judge me! I love God too! Your speaking of holiness is self-righteous and judgmental. Don’t you know that we are covered by grace… where is your love?” It is necessary to differentiate between those who attempt to obey and fail and those who want to remain in their sin. There is a BIG difference! Sometimes God will permit a weakness to linger for a season to serve a greater purpose - perhaps to work a deeper humility. But be careful, beloved, therein lies an opportunity for self-deception. You can love and hate your sin at the same time. In your very deepest parts you truly want to keep this sin… and that may be why it lingers. Be honest with yourself.

What Won't You Let Go Of?

How often you espouse an undying allegiance to our Lord. "I will do your will, Lord - use me!" Nonetheless, there lingers within you a hindrance... something that stunts your spiritual growth and development occasionally tarnishing your witness. Is it your pride, or lying and lack of financial integrity or perhaps a particular self-indulgent habit, your anger or critical spirit? What is it that you refuse to surrender?

It is very unpopular to speak like this when much of the preaching has been about God's love and grace and financial prosperity.  Nevertheless, Christian, for those desiring to win the prize, those who want to shake free from the mediocrity of the current form of lukewarm Christianity, it is absolutely essential to be challenged, rebuked and disciplined by your loving Father. Are you willing to receive this? (Heb. 12:4-13) The Master is merciful, gracious, slow to anger, abounding in mercy. He realizes that we are weak and flawed and has referred to us as dust. However, He wants you to get it right. Make no mistake; God wants you to stop sinning - now!

In your struggle with self and sin, remember that the question of obedience is never "Can I or can't I obey?" but “Will I or won't I? “The word of God says that you are not permitted to be tempted beyond what you can bear. The Lord makes a way of escape. Grace is abundant where sin abounds, but you must avail yourself. What are you actually doing to gain victory?

In the past, your favorite sin has given you pleasure or in some way afforded escape or gratification or comfort. This is why you have continued to do it. And then God began to gently convict you. If you didn't respond, He probably increased the pressure and you began to feel the sting. No doubt, the pressure will increase until you submit. Things could be worse; God could leave you alone, giving you up to your own desires. Now that's a frightening thought.

True repentance entails: 1) acknowledging your sin 2) asking God for forgiveness 3) turning away from that sin. Don’t fool yourself; you can’t keep your sin. Lay it down and walk away! Remember this: When you turn toward sin you are turning away from Jesus. When you turn away from sin you are turning back to Jesus… your first Love.  

An Important Insight

Someone who already feels badly about themselves may have the tendency to perceive all corrective teaching and the call to holy living as critical and judgmental. They are quick to take things to the extreme - either refusing to admit their faults while blaming others or they declare they are a terrible sinner and can never do anything right! (This is the problem with many people who have been mistreated.) Self pity or self justification rises up and hinders true repentance. Nevertheless, even those who have at one time been abused are called to repent and walk in holiness. The crux of the matter may not rest upon how one feels about themselves, but simply their level of pride - or humility.            Peter Whitehouse