Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
Here is a clear commission from God. We have a responsibility to “perfect” holiness in our lives. This is not something we get when prayed for. This is not something imparted, this is not given.
It is something we must do and because we must do it we can be confident we are equipped to do it.
1. “Cleanse ourselves from all defilement”
Perfecting holiness begins with removing sin and its effects from our lives. Make the call. Don’t any longer be dragged down, Be aware of where you stand lest you fall.
Choose to “clean” up your act. Sin is a defilement to your life. It is an abuse of the temple that Jesus bought with His life. And because of that sacrifice you are empowered to cleanse yourself from sin.
2. “Perfecting Holiness in the fear of the Lord”
Holiness does not stem from legalism. Rather holiness is perfected in the fear of the Lord.
To fear the Lord is to hate what is evil (Prov 8:13). A heart for God longs after what pleases God and hates what He hates. When we fear God and His ways, the process of sanctification and holiness takes greater and greater effect in our lives. It is holiness being perfected.
PRAYER: Father, thank you for enabling me to purify my life and perfect holiness according to your promise. This is only because of you and your grace which I freely receive, in Jesus name, Amen.
There is no better time for the Church to hear this than now. We are so eager to possess our possessions that we very often we forget the most important prerequisite – holiness!