The Course For Holy Living

THE COURSE FOR HOLY LIVING
1 Peter 1:17 - 23

...I am confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6 NIV

The word "holy" means to be set apart for God's use. To be holy dedicate your self to God to be "set apart" for His use. You can make that decision today.

Holiness begins in your mind, to act holy learn to think holy.

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 NIV

Three elements of holiness

I. HOLY LIVING STARTS WITH PREPARATION

Therefore, prepare your minds for action... 1 Peter 1:13 NIV

…gird up the loins of your mind. 1 Peter 1:13 KJV

Peter is saying "Prepare your self for strenuous mental activity. Your mind has become a battlefield; get ready to fight."

If we fill our minds with junk we'll end up thinking junk. If we fill our minds with scripture, prayer, uplifting music, and edifying conversation, our lives will reflect the difference.

II. HOLY LIVING CONTINUES WITH SEPARATION

Peter says "Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled… 1 Peter 1:13)

Peter is saying if you are going to live a holy life keep your head on straight.

When a man becomes drunk he loses his ability to reason, he loses perspective, and ruled by his emotions rather than sound judgment. That's one reason it is so dangerous when people drink and drive. They aren't capable of making good decisions.

Peter says we must remain sober, not just free from intoxicating beverages, but free from intoxicating thoughts or intoxicating emotions.

III. HOLY LIVING IS REALIZED WITH CONCENTRATION

… set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. 1 Peter 1:13 NIV

The Greek for grace is “charis” and means kindness shown to one who is undeserving.

We cannot learn to live holy until we learn to take our eyes off ourselves and concentrate on God. He must be the center of our attention.

We have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. Hebrews 10:10 NIV