In an unholy world it seems the natural thought process for Christians to desire more holiness. But those of experience recognize that more holiness in an unholy world is a difficult undertaking. The old hymn of request says “more holiness give me” and should be the earnest desire of every Christian. Can you have too much holiness? If so, should one be concerned about passing God up in holiness? Of course the obvious answer is no one need worry about getting too holy, and surpassing God in purity is not going to happen. So, the goal is ever before us, “Be holy, for I am Holy” says the Lord our God (I Pet. 1:16).
More holiness comes from thinking on these things (Phil. 4:8). “As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he” (Prov. 23:7). Holiness comes not by miraculous measure, but by discipline of heart and mind (Heb. 4:15). Jesus was put to the test and you will be, too. The benefit a Christian has is that Jesus was put to the test, overcame, and is now at the right hand of God ready for your bold request for His help (Heb. 4:16). It is our responsibility to guard our hearts (Prov. 4:23). A heart unprotected is open for the devil to take it over through temptation and sin (Luke 11:24-26). Meditation of heart upon those things pure and holy will make the difference (Psa. 119:97, 99).
More holiness comes from opening your heart to the Lord (I Thess. 5:17). Tempted? Talk to God. Weak? Talk to God. Strong? Talk to God. Happy? Talk to God. Sad? Talk to God. Open communication with the Heavenly Father is most important. A pattern of constant, consistent communication is to “Pray without ceasing.” Talk to God always, but let Him talk to you. Is your heart full of His word? Do you have set times in your busy day to meet with God talking to Him and listening to His word? Christians have a direct line to the source of holiness, and sadly sometimes fail to use it. More holiness comes by opening your heart to God.
More holiness comes from putting God’s word into practice—work (James 1:22). Fill in the blank: “Idle hands are the __?__ workshop.” Christianity put into practice is a must for more holiness. Jesus put His disciples to work (Matt. 4:19; Mark 1:17). In one sense it’s easy, just tell what you’ve seen and know (Luke 7:22). Jesus did something and then taught about it (Acts 1:1). The apostle Paul put young Timothy to work—on-the-job training which produced a man of holiness (Phil. 2:20-22). Christianity from its earliest revelation was taught by being seen in practice (Matt. 5:16). Rescue the perishing (Gal. 6:1; James 5:14) and care for the dying (II Tim. 4:11). It has been observed the we rust out far quicker than we wear out. Want more holiness, go to work in the Kingdom. The song says “more joy in His service.” More holiness needed.
The world and the church need more holiness, and every honest Christian must admit they do, too. More holiness give me Father as I exercise my responsibility doing my part.
David Hill
Northeast Church of Christ bulletin August 13, 2023