Theme : HOW TO CULTIVATE SANCTIFICATION IN A BELIEVER’S LIFE

By Bro Gerlance MAYELE

Text: John 15:3–8; Colossians 2:6–7

Without holiness, no one will see the Lord.

Holiness is obedience to God’s commandments. It is a life we are called to live on a daily basis. It is a shield that protects us from going where we are not supposed to go. It is the purity of our mind, heart, and body.

In 1 Thessalonians, the Bible emphasizes that we should be able to control our bodies, especially regarding sexual immorality, and that we are to live in harmony with others.

How, then, should we live a life of sanctification?

• We need to abide in Christ. John 15 reveals that it is only by abiding in Christ that we can bear fruit. Like branches, when we remain in Him, we receive the nourishment we need to be fruitful. Otherwise, we will not bear fruit and will eventually be cut off.

• We need to walk in Jesus Christ through His Word. God’s Word is like a mirror that helps us identify and remove the impurities in our lives. By reading it, we learn to distinguish good from evil and avoid conforming to the ways of the world. Through the Word, we receive the spiritual nourishment we need to influence the society around us and to live according to God’s will. When facing trials and difficulties, we should ask ourselves, “What does the Word of God say about this situation?” For His Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path.

• We need to resist temptation and flee from sin. James 4:7 teaches us to resist the devil, and he will flee from us. Through the cross, Christ has already accomplished the victory the devil is defeated. Our responsibility is to hide God’s Word in our hearts and stand firm against the devil. He cannot remain when we resist him.

Finally, we are called to be good examples to our communities by living lives of sanctification. This requires God’s help through prayer and continual meditation on His Word and His commandments.