A born again Christian, through regeneration is one God has made Holy by Jesus' Finished work at Calvary.
"To the church of God in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be holy, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ -their Lord and ours..." 1 Corinthians 1:2 (NIV).
There is a difference between Instant sanctification, and Progressive sanctification (growing in holiness);
"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." 2 Corinthians 7:1 (NIV).
To completely consecrate ourselves to God Paul says,
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God -this is your spiritual act of worship." Romans 12:1 (NIV).
Jesus calls upon us to deny ourselves and take up our cross daily!
"...If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." Luke 9:23 (NIV).
Because God is holy, he says to us: "...Be holy, because I am holy." 1 Peter 1:16 (NIV).
When we are born again and made holy, we must walk and talk, and dwell in the spirit of holiness. We must not let our spiritual wine bottles leak! Because if we allow ourselves to leak, in comes all the rubbish, jealousy, hatred, pride, resentment and sickness. The Old man becomes alive again! "Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no-one will see the Lord." Hebrews 12:14 (NIV).
Try to live spiritually Objective (not to be influenced by personal feelings or prejudices). Don't allow negative troublemakers to affect you -walk in Holiness, and truth. Remember you do not have to allow others to affect you in any way! If you allow them to wind you up, you are letting them control you and your life. If they say rude things to you, turn the other cheek, love your enemies! It will not only make you feel good in your own heart, but in your body too!
Holiness can be a wonderful healer of Spirit mind and body. The Bible says, "Study to be quiet", "let your conversation be yea and nay", "Beware of foolish jesting", "God is love", what wonderful words of truth, Holy words! How I desire to lead a more holy consecrated, obedient life.
A Holy life is a wonderful, beautiful, healthy life!
Written By Rev. Arthur J. Milton
