HOLINESS A MARK OF BELONGING TO GOD’S FAMILY
God explained to Moses the purpose behind the laws of personal conduct for the people of Israel, namely: Holiness. The Hebrew word for “holy” is qadosh (קָדוֹשׁ), literally meaning to be set apart for special use, to be consecrated, sacred, holy. God had chosen the Israelites to be His special people, set apart for His purpose. They were to be different than the world, showing forth the glory and holiness of God, as His image bearers. Yet, the law was unable to change their unholy hearts. It worked to restrain their behavior somewhat, but its real effect was to reflect their guilty hearts and reveal their need for a Savior.
If we are to be holy as the Lord our God is holy, then we must receive His Holy One, Jesus the Christ. Then, our lives will “shine like stars” in a dark world (Phil.2:15).
PRAYER: Our Father in heaven, holy is Your name. Your call to holiness, to be set apart as Your children, is in our ears. For we have received Your holy Son, Jesus, into our hearts. Strengthen our will power and our working-power to follow You In all things. For You call us to pull our affections off the world and to put them on You. We are set apart this day unto You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.