The Privilege of Holiness

Deuteronomy 7:6 "For you are a holy people, who belong to The Lord your God. Of all the people on earth, The Lord your God has chosen you to be His own special treasure."

Deuteronomy 7:9 "Understand, therefore, that The Lord your God is indeed God. He is the faithful God who keeps His covenant for a thousand generations and constantly loves those who love Him and obey His commands."

Deuteronomy 7:19 "... The Lord your God will use this same power against the people you fear."

Deuteronomy 7:21 "No, do not be afraid of those nations, for The Lord your God is among you, and He is a great and awesome God"

I've been studying in Deuteronomy lately, and these are the 4 verses that stood out to me the most in chapter 7. The title of the chapter in my Bible was "The Privilege of Holiness". That made chills go through me the first time I read it. 

First off, did you know that holiness is a privilege? It's an honor. Sometimes we take holiness for granted, and, as humans, we get the mindset of "Oh, God still loves me even though I'm doing this" or "I'm still saved even though I did that. It's not a Heaven or Hell issue!"

I've had those same thoughts come across my mind before, sadly. While those statements are true, we do NOT want to think those thoughts that the devil is throwing at us! Once we allow a little sin to come into our lives, we will think it is alright. Then a little more, and a little more... and suddenly, you are amazed by what, way back then you would have thought was terrible, is completely consuming your life!

God chose us specifically to be His holy people and to be examples for those who do not know Him. He counts on us... relies on us, to be His messengers and spread the gospel to others. I know what you may be thinking- "Hold up. I want to go to Heaven and everything... but I did not sign up for a life style change."

Actually, you are wrong. Sorry! But the moment you told Jesus to come into your life, you signed a covenant with Him. You promised God that you would dedicate your life to His kingdom. Being a Christian is a lifestyle. It is probably the biggest lifestyle change you can make. Christian literally means Christ-like, and that is what we should strive to be every day. 

The Bible says "Be ye Holy, for I am Holy" (1 Peter 1:16). Every minute of every hour, it is our responsibility to be holy.  Not holier-than-thou... But truly a servant of God and a friend to others. When we wake up in the mornings, we should clothe ourselves with holiness. People should know by the way we act, treat others, and dress that we are a part of God's chosen people. 

Thank God for choosing you specifically. Thank Him for sacrificing Himself so you could live eternally... and lastly, thank Him for the wonderful privilege that is holiness. 

Have a great day y'all! :) ---- Kiley