Lent Day 12 - Be Holy

‘I am the Lord your God; consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am holy.’ Leviticus 11:44a

‘Holy God, what do you desire from me?’ ‘Make every effort to … be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord’ (Heb. 12:14).

I was looking forward to sharing dinner with friends, but although I may have appeared to be a nice enough person, I was later convicted of my unattractive ego and self. My heart was more often motivated by me than by God.

It’s pleasant to meet nice people, but without holiness we lack the conviction of God’s presence. If we’re amiable and kind-mannered, many may like us, but holiness goes further and deeper. Holiness stands for God’s divine nature and intentions for life. As we seek to be holy, our values may not always be acceptable to others, but we will reflect who God is.

I’ve been challenged to prayerfully consider some questions which I share with you here. When have I appeared to be nice but have:

• Compromised truth?

• Conceded to principles or beliefs that are lower than God’s standard?

• Nurtured negativity?

• Subtly (or overtly) shifted the blame onto someone else?

• Subtly (or overtly) shamed or put someone down?

• Turned a blind eye to injustice?

• Spoken or acted hypocritically or deceptively?

• Turned the focus of attention onto me? No one is perfect!

Just pray through your response as you feel led. Your Father loves to help you grow into his likeness.

Taken from Dwell by Anne Le Tissier

Do you feel too busy to spend quality time with God?

Do you long to know God better?

Do you want to revitalise your Bible reading?

Dwell invites you to slow down and reflect on one short Bible passage over the course of a week in a way that can be fitted into even the busiest schedule.

Through guided questions or exercises each day that draw on different aspects of the Bible verses, Anne Le Tissier helps you to understand, participate in and be shaped by what you have read. Dwelling in Scripture in this way enables God's words to make a home in your heart long after the week has passed.

Let God's Word dwell in you as you grow closer to him, one verse at a time.

Reflect

Dwell with this verse throughout your day, reflecting on how it continues to shape and inform your response.