The characteristics of holy living

By Stan Toler

These are mind-blowing days of school shootings and cybersex addictions. Why, even our language has been fouled. Everyday communication often includes profaning the very God whose breath gives us life.

What’s wrong with this picture?

The fact is, we were created to reflect the “holy- ness” (holiness) of a holy God in our everyday lives. The Bible says, “As He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do” (1 Peter 1:15 NIV).

If everything about God that is pure, just and righteous was stamped on the hearts of His creation, why then is life so devalued? Why are the blushes of sin and blasphemy so noticeably absent?

We’re looking in the wrong mirror. We were created to mirror the holiness of God, but instead, we are reflecting the shallowness of our society.

First, it unconditionally hates sin. John the apostle wrote, “No one who lives in Him keeps on sinning” (1 John 3:6 NIV). Everyday holiness refuses to dog-paddle in the whirlpools of the world.

Second, it unconditionally loves people. Jesus told us to pattern Him in our love for others. “As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34-35).

Third, it makes unconditional sacrifices for the welfare of others. John 3:16 has been mocked by football fans, professional wrestlers and stand-up comedians. But it will never be replaced as the definitive word on God’s commitment to His creation. “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

He paid the ultimate price for every person.

Chuck Colson said, “Holiness is the everyday business of every Christian.” Everyday holiness? Now that’s a refreshing thought!

Copyright © 2012 by Stan A. Toler

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