Be Ye Holy – Does It Apply to Me?

Before Moses came to the children of Israel, they had so long been living in bondage in Egypt that their way of life, even as slaves, seemed the norm.  At the very least, what they could expect for a lifetime.  But God had other plans.  He wanted something different for His people.  His “other plans” were different or distinct from all they had known.

Fast forward to their new lives in the Promised Land and the children began comparing themselves to the people around them.  Not surprisingly, comparison led to discontent and the people began to demand a king.  There were warnings that this was not a good idea – God’s plan has always been the best plan – “nevertheless the people refused to obey…and they said, Nay; but we will have a king…” (I Samuel 8:19)  They wanted to blend in.  To be anything but different or distinct.  And the cost was high.

The first definition of “other” is:  a person (or thing) that is different or distinct from one already known.  Distinction has always been God’s desire for His children.  And, holiness is the way to distinction for believers today.  Unfortunately, it seems many shy away from the pursuit of holiness or even the desire to be distinct.  Not only is holiness often viewed as arrogant – even prejudice – but many are embracing the idea that believers need to purposefully blend in. This is as dangerous as the Israelites insisting on their own way.

Can we be holy and still be loving?  Holy while putting others before ourselves and seeking to serve?  Yes, of course.  We can – and we must.  The two go hand in hand.

STOP.  These are my thoughts on the FMF prompt for today:  other.  Other….an adjective used to describe God’s children.  Distinct and different.  Written with all humility and as a challenge. To me.
 A desire to be holy is a choice each day – and not always an easy choice.  But, easy is not often the best choice and challenge should not be used as an excuse.  If so, the Israelites would, no doubt, have remained slaves in Egypt.