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The Holiness of God

November 9, 2014 Series: Behold Your God

Passage: Psalm 111:9

"He sent redemption to his people; he has commanded his covenant forever. Holy and awesome is his name!"
(Psalm 111:9)

There has been some focus on the Christian reformation and spiritual revival. Spiritual revival can occur through the mighty movement of the Holy Spirit in the hearts of God's people, personal revival of faith among spiritual leaders, and as a journey of faith for the people. The results of spiritual revival are renewal of one's love for God, restoration of appreciation for the holiness of God, a repentant spirit over personal and corporate sin, and a recommitment to righteousness, obedience, prayer and use of spiritual gifts for God's glory.

The meaning of the holiness of God

Being holy means God is set apart from the rest of creation in terms of purity (Job 34:10). It is not God conforming to standards; rather, God Himself is the standard. Other than moral perfection, being holy also means that God is set apart from the rest of creation totally. He is separate, distinct, of infinite perfection that is above and beyond what we can be (Exodus 15:11, 1 Samuel 2:2).

The importance of the holiness of God

Knowing the holiness of God is central to understanding who God is and what He does. It is the one name God wants to be known by (Psalms 99:3, Luke 1:49) and is a chief characteristic of what He does (Deuteronomy 32:3-4). It shows us that God thinks and operates at a level far above us (Isaiah 55:8-9). His holiness separates Him from sin (Habbakuk 1:13, James 1:13-14) for God cannot sin, cannot be tempted by sin, nor tempt others to sin. It is because He is holy that God and us are separated by sin.

Personal implications

  1. We ought to approach God with reverence and awe (Hebrews 12:28-29, Habbakuk 3:16, Isaiah 6:5, Luke 5:8).
  2. Believers should pursue holiness (1 Peter 1:14-16)
  3. What God's holiness demanded, His love has provided (1 John 4:10, Ephesians 2:8-9).
  4. Where has the holiness of God brought you today? Does it bring you to your knees?

More in Behold Your God

December 14, 2014

The Sovereignty of God & You

November 16, 2014

The Wrath of God

October 19, 2014

Why Is It Important To Know God?