Many people assume holiness is synonymous with conduct. This common mistake confuses the root with the fruit. And although holiness produces proper conduct (fruit), at its purest form (root), holiness is the act of separating and dedicating oneself for a certain purpose.
Holiness begins with a decision. Holiness begins with a choice that’s based out of a conviction to keep a covenant relationship. To be holy is to continually separate oneself completely to the will of God. Holiness is a daily decision. It’s a normal, natural and mental resolution that once made, changes the trajectory of your life in every way. It’s a “game changer.” Once holiness becomes habitual, it elevates us to a greater platform of being and doing.
How do we get there? Easy. It’s starts with a decision. Everyday. Every hour. The essence of your decision is to separate and dedicate your time, money, and affections to God. It begins with repentance and continues with humility. It’s hearing His voice and obeying it. It’s studying His Word and allowing it to create the culture of your life. It’s nurturing a relationship with the creator of the universe. It’s removing us from the center of our lives and conceding our control to Christ. Holiness results in being used by Him everyday in every way.
What about conduct (fruit)? Its fruit is not just “good behavior” – it’s far more than that. Good behavior is a minimal offshoot of holiness. Effective, powerful Christian living with a notable touch of God’s presence and favor is the primary fruit of holiness. And this is not evidenced by a religious behavior of denial, rather the Fruit of the Spirit – Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
1 Peter 1:16 – “for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”
