What God’s Holiness Means for You

Who may climb the mountain of the LORD? Who may stand in his holy place?
Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never
tell lies. They will receive the LORD’s blessing and have a right relationship with
God as their savior.
Psalm 24:3–5

Both the original Hebrew and Greek terms that are translated “holy” in the Scriptures convey the idea of “separateness” or “separation, a setting apart.” In the Bible, when something is said to be “holy,” that something is set apart for God, like our two words “dedicated” and “consecrated.” The furniture in the tabernacle was “dedicated” furniture; the robes worn by the priests were “consecrated” robes. They were holy, in the sense of being set apart for the purpose, the work, and the glory of God. “Holiness” carries the concept to its maximum expression, indicating a total separation from all that is sinful, impure, and imperfect. Moral wholeness is encompassed within the word holiness, meaning that God is absolutely separate from any and all contamination.

To the surprise of many, it is the will of God for us to be holy too. Remember Peter’s words?

As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written: “YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY.” (1 Peter 1:14–16 NASB)

Why is it important for us who seek His will to know that our God is holy?

First of all, His holiness assures us that He is absolutely trustworthy. Being holy, He will never take advantage of His children; He will never abuse us, He will never manipulate us, and He will never lead us astray. His will may seem mysterious, but it’s never wrong. This holy Being who is sinless cannot do wrong. You and I can trust Him to do only what is right at all times.

Second, His holiness guarantees that He has no deceitful agenda, no questionable motives. When God leads you into His will, you never have to wonder: Will this backfire? Will this somehow work against me?

Third, His holiness represents a model of perfection. Our God has not one flaw, hidden or observed, unwritten or recorded. Not even indirectly.

Those who walk in the light, obeying God’s will, are actively engaged in a holy—a different kind of—walk. Holiness is not passive. It isn’t all up to God. We are active participants in the process. Holiness is part of the process of the will of God for us, His children.