What comes to mind when you hear the word “holiness”? For some, it might conjure images of stern-faced people or an unreachable standard that feels overwhelming. But what if holiness is something far more beautiful—a divine invitation to experience God’s love and reflect it to the world? Let’s explore what holiness really means and discover the joy it holds.
What Is Holiness, Really?
Holiness is less about rigid rules and more about deep relationship. Think of it this way: when you’re in love, you naturally want to spend time with the person and adopt some of their wonderful qualities. That’s what holiness looks like with God—drawing closer to Him so His character shines through us.
“Be ye holy; for I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:16 KJV)
This isn’t a harsh command but an invitation to share in God’s nature! Just as children reflect the traits of their parents, we’re designed to reflect the character of our loving Father. Holiness is God saying, “Come closer; let Me transform you with My love.”
Can You “Lose” Holiness?
Here’s some good news: holiness isn’t a fragile status that disappears with one mistake. It’s rooted in your relationship with God. Think of it like a phone connected to a charger—you don’t “lose” the ability to charge, but you need to stay plugged into the power source. Staying connected to God ensures that His holiness continues to flow into your life.
Can You Get “More” Holiness?
Holiness isn’t about collecting points or achieving levels. It’s about growing closer in a relationship. The more time you spend with someone you love, the deeper the bond becomes. Similarly, holiness grows as we spend time with God.
“But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory…” (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV)
Holiness is an ongoing transformation, not a one-time accomplishment. It’s God lovingly shaping us into the image of Christ.
The “Holier Than Thou” Trap (And How to Avoid It!)
We’ve all encountered the “holier than thou” attitude, and let’s be honest—it’s not appealing. Interestingly, truly holy people don’t act this way. Why? Because the closer we get to God, the more we’re overwhelmed by His love and grace, not our own achievements.
Imagine standing on the shore of a vast ocean. Are you proud of being taller than the sand beneath your feet? Of course not—you’re too amazed by the ocean’s beauty! Growing in holiness is like that. The closer we get to God, the more we’re in awe of Him and less focused on comparing ourselves to others.
Practical Steps for Growing in Holiness (With Zero Pride!)
1. Stay Connected to Love
Holiness flows from relationship. Spend time with God like you would with a dear friend—through prayer, worship, and quiet moments of reflection. Let His love shape your heart and actions.
2. Keep It Real
God doesn’t expect perfect performance; He desires authentic relationship. Be honest with Him about your struggles, fears, and joys. Holiness begins with vulnerability before God.
3. Focus on Grace
When you stumble (and we all do), remember that God’s love remains constant. Holiness is about His grace working in us, not our ability to “get it right” all the time.
The Heart of the Matter
Here’s the beautiful truth: holiness isn’t about being “better than” anyone else—it’s about becoming more like Jesus. The holiest person who ever lived was also the most approachable. Jesus spent time with those considered “unholy” by society, extending love, grace, and truth to everyone He met.
“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” (Luke 19:10 KJV) Holiness isn’t about exclusivity; it’s about transformation—becoming more loving, gracious, and understanding as we reflect the heart of Christ.
Reframing Holiness
Holiness is not a competition to win or a status to achieve. It’s a love story—a divine invitation to draw closer to God and let His light shine through us to others. As we grow in holiness, we become vessels of His love, bringing hope and healing to a hurting world.
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16 KJV)
What’s Your Perspective?
Has this view of holiness changed the way you think about growing in your relationship with God? Instead of striving to be “good enough,” let’s embrace holiness as a love story, an invitation to experience more of God’s transformative power in our lives. We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below—how has God been drawing you closer to Him?