Be Ye Holy

Holiness is a clean, pure life set apart for God, not merely a change in clothing, speech, or outward religious behavior. Its opposite is profaneness—a heart and life that treat sacred things as common and remain available for worldly use. God commands His children to be holy in every part of their conduct, and Jesus Christ, not other people or religious traditions, is the standard. Sanctification is the continuing process by which God cleanses His people through His Word and correction, while they respond in obedience by putting away former desires and practices. A holy life begins with a changed heart and becomes visible in thoughts, words, choices, and conduct. The goal is not to appear better than others, but to become more like Christ. The hope of seeing Him and being in His presence gives every believer reason to pursue purity and yield continually to His transforming work.