From the Edges – Becoming Holy – Morning Devotional

From the Edges – Morning Devotions

Becoming Holy

Pastor Calvin Cook – September 18, 2024

Scripture focus – 2 Corinthians 7:1 Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.

The idea of moving closer to God could be desired as a time of seeking and establishing a faithfulness to all that God is desiring to do in your life.

In our scripture focus for today, Paul talks about the promises of God—His love, grace, and presence. As believers, we have these promises that God has made us. One of the key promises that we have is the promise that was made to Joshua in Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” This promise is true to us or should be a foundational promise. We might need to reflect on what we have been through in life and seeing when our complete trust was in God how we were delivered.  When challenges arise, hold onto these promises—they are your anchor.

Secondly, we must learn to avoid anything that does not bring purity into our heart. This is tough, so very tough because we are constantly barraged by the influences of the world, the distractions of evil that appear to be good. We are encouraged to avoid anything that separates us from the love of God. This becomes so very important as we focus more it seems on bitterness, unforgiveness, or harmful habits instead upon the presence and the goodness of God. As we surrender to God and experience redemption God’s grace will wash over you. We should constantly be seeking to see God in the midst of everything.

 The last thought I want to share is about legalism. We are more legalistic in our faith and relationship with God than is good and pleasing to God. Holiness isn’t about legalism; it’s about reverence for God.  When we recognize God in His holiness, we respond with awe and respect. We make choices that honor Him that glorify God. As confession I have been praying that God will send me to people and places that are desiring to hear about Jesus. In just the last few weeks I have been able to encounter people that are seeking a new and better way. The change has been coming to the place and realizing, I can do nothing. I can’t solve their problems or be the great fixer. The only true thing that I can do is offer Jesus. God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit becomes the great fixer. We can pray hours of days but unless the one we are praying for even if it is for ourselves are ready to receive the purpose and promise of God, those prayers are just words. But importantly enough prayer is being in God’s promise not just talking but listening as well, and then following the direction.

So that we might become Holy as God is holy in our own lives we need to pursue righteousness, kindness, and love and seek to live a life that reflects the holiness of God, the teachings and example of Jesus and the move of the Holy Spirit in the presence.  His character must become our character.  Remember that you are set apart for His purposes, and your actions matter.

I am praying this morning for a peace that overcomes every situation of my life and allows me to see the glory and the presence of God in all ways and all things. I am praying to move past the oppression of what ever is keeping me from stepping into the glory of God. How about if we move into God’s neighborhood together.