Separated Unto God

In his first letter to the dispersed Jewish believers in the then Asia Minor, the apostle Peter instructed them, "But as He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy" (1 Peter 1:15-16, KJV). Theologians refer to this call as the effectual call, the work of God's spirit appropriated on the human heart and which is essentially the influencing of the mind to turn to God, or to enter into His kingdom. Though initially written to that constituency of believers, the admonishment is as true for us today as it was for them then.

It is a wonderful thing to be called of God, however, being called of God into His kingdom carries its responsibilities. We see Peter, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, admonishing believers to "be holy in all manner of conversation." The original Greek word translated "conversation" also means "behavior" and so that portion of the text could be read, "be holy in all manner of behavior." We also notice the given reason why they (and us) should be that way was because the One who has called them (and us) is holy, but what does that mean? Bible Scholar Albert Barnes, in his notes on the text, writes, "The meaning here is, the model or example in accordance with which they were to frame their lives, should be the character of that God who had called them into His kingdom. They were to be like Him."

Because what was true for them is also true for us, we are also called to model our lives after The One who has called us. Most of us, if not all, can testify to being greatly challenged in this area, yet the Word of God shows no compromise; we are to be holy [set aside for sacred purposes, devoted, consecrated and pure.] It is not a badge of pride but an emptying of our selfish desires and the taking on of the spiritual desires and values of God's word. Embracing these values enables us to have holy thoughts that leads to holy behaviors, and because God is holy, as we do His will and follow His ways, we become holy also.

Being separated unto God is not a one shot deal but is a daily and continuous process. Some days we experience victory, other days failure. But the challenge remains the same - model our lives after Him who has called us. We should be mindful that as we follow Him, He uses our lives to call others. Jesus said, "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. . . . Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5:14, 16).

As you go about living your life, which model are you using?