In the pursuit of holiness, the Bible should always serve as our guide. Its wisdom provides practical steps for living a life set apart. Holiness isn’t about unreachable perfection; it’s about aligning with God’s standards. Through simple obedience, love, and transformation, anyone can walk this path.
This article outlines ten foundational principles drawn directly from scripture. By following these, you can cultivate a life of holiness that reflects God’s character. Let’s delve into these principles and discover how to walk in holiness according to the teachings of the Bible.
How to Be Holy Following the Bible
#1. Follow God’s Commandments
“You shall have no other gods before me.” – Exodus 20:3
Obeying God’s commandments is fundamental to holiness. This directive from Exodus 20:3 sets the precedence for aligning our lives with God’s will. When we prioritize God above all else, we acknowledge His sovereignty and authority in our lives. By adhering to His commandments, such as not coveting or worshiping other gods, we demonstrate our commitment to living in accordance with His righteous standards.
#2. Love God and Others
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. […] Love your neighbor as yourself.” – Matthew 22:37-39
Central to holiness is love. These words from Matthew 22:37-39 encapsulate the essence of holiness in relational terms. Loving God wholeheartedly and loving others as ourselves reflects the core of God’s character. This love motivates us to live in harmony, compassion, and selflessness, embodying the very essence of holiness in our daily interactions.
#3. Renew Your Mind
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:2
Transformation begins with renewing our minds, as stated in Romans 12:2. This verse underscores the importance of cultivating a holy mindset by rejecting worldly influences and embracing God’s truth. By immersing ourselves in His Word and aligning our thoughts with His principles, we undergo a process of spiritual renewal that shapes our attitudes and behaviors in accordance with His will.
#4. Flee from Sin
“Flee from sexual immorality.” – 1 Corinthians 6:18
Holiness requires actively fleeing from sin, as advised in 1 Corinthians 6:18. This admonition emphasizes the urgency of avoiding sinful behaviors and temptations that can lead us astray from God’s path. By distancing ourselves from immorality and ungodliness, we safeguard our purity and uphold the sanctity of our relationship with God.
#5. Be Set Apart
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession.” – 1 Peter 2:9
God calls us to be set apart from the world, as affirmed in 1 Peter 2:9. This declaration reminds us of our identity as God’s chosen ones, destined for a life of holiness and purpose. Embracing our status as His special possession empowers us to live distinctly holy lives, reflecting His glory and proclaiming His goodness to the world.
#6. Practice Self-Control
“But the fruit of the Spirit is […] self-control.” – Galatians 5:22-23
Self-control is integral to holiness, as highlighted in Galatians 5:22-23. This fruit of the Spirit enables us to govern our desires, impulses, and actions in alignment with God’s will. By exercising self-discipline in all areas of our lives, we demonstrate our commitment to honoring God and living holy lives.
#7. Seek Holiness through Christ
“But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.'” – 1 Peter 1:15-16
Holiness is attained through Christ, as affirmed in 1 Peter 1:15-16. Our pursuit of holiness mirrors the character of God Himself, who is inherently holy. By surrendering to Christ and allowing His transformative power to work within us, we are empowered to live lives that reflect His purity and righteousness.
#8. Walk in the Spirit
“So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” – Galatians 5:16
Walking in the Spirit is essential for maintaining holiness, as instructed in Galatians 5:16. By yielding to the guidance and influence of the Holy Spirit, we are empowered to overcome the temptations of the flesh and live according to God’s standards. This continuous reliance on the Spirit enables us to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and discernment.
#9. Practice Humility
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
Humility is a hallmark of holiness, as exemplified in Philippians 2:3. This virtue calls us to set aside our pride and ego, instead esteeming others above ourselves. By adopting a humble attitude, we demonstrate our reliance on God’s grace and acknowledge our need for His guidance in our journey towards holiness.
#10. Pray Continually
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Continual prayer is vital for cultivating holiness, as instructed in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. By maintaining a constant connection with God through prayer, we invite His presence and guidance into every aspect of our lives. Prayer enables us to seek His will, receive His strength, and experience His peace, empowering us to live holy and purposeful lives.
Closing Thoughts
Holiness is not an unattainable ideal reserved for a select few; it is a calling for every believer. By faithfully following the principles outlined in the Bible, we can cultivate lives that reflect God’s character and bring glory to His name.
Let us commit ourselves daily to obedience, love, and transformation, trusting in God’s grace to empower us on this journey of holiness. May our lives be a testimony to His goodness and righteousness, inspiring others to pursue holiness with diligence and joy.