True follows of Christ understand that the call to holiness echoes as a profound melody, inviting believers to embody the purity and righteousness exemplified by the Apostles. As members of the Apostolic Church, our pursuit of holiness is not a distant ideal but a tangible reality to be lived out in our daily lives. In this exploration, we will delve into practical tips for embracing Apostolic holiness, making sanctification a transformative and achievable goal.
Understanding Apostolic Holiness: A Divine Standard
Holiness is not an abstract concept but a reflection of God’s character. In Leviticus 11:44, God commands His people, “Be holy, for I am holy.” This divine standard of holiness carries into the New Testament, where the Apostle Peter, in 1 Peter 1:15-16, echoes the call to be holy in all conduct. Apostolic holiness, therefore, is a lifestyle that mirrors the nature of a holy God.
Practical Tips for Everyday Sanctification:
- Immerse Yourself in the Word of God: The Scriptures are a wellspring of divine wisdom and guidance. Regularly read and meditate on the Word, allowing it to shape your thoughts, actions, and character.
- Prayer and Communion with God: Foster a consistent prayer life, seeking intimacy with God. Communicate openly with Him, expressing gratitude, seeking forgiveness, and presenting your desires with a surrendered heart.
- Cultivate a Spirit of Gratitude: A thankful heart is a sanctified heart. Acknowledge God’s blessings in your life, and cultivate a spirit of gratitude that permeates your daily interactions and activities.
- Guard Your Mind and Heart: Be mindful of the influences you allow into your life. Guard your thoughts and emotions, choosing content that aligns with Apostolic values and fosters spiritual growth.
- Engage in Acts of Service: Emulate the servant-hearted nature of Christ by engaging in acts of service. Whether within the church community or beyond, selfless service reflects the love of God and contributes to your sanctification.
- Accountability and Fellowship: Surround yourself with like-minded believers who share your commitment to holiness. Establish accountability partnerships that encourage spiritual growth and provide support during challenging times.
- Practise Self-Reflection: Regularly assess your thoughts, words, and actions. Identify areas that may need refinement and seek God’s guidance in areas where sanctification is required.
Embracing Grace in Imperfection:
While the pursuit of holiness is an integral part of the Christian walk, it is essential to acknowledge that sanctification is a lifelong process. The Apostle Paul, in Philippians 3:12, expressed this truth by stating, “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.”
Embrace the grace that accompanies the journey, understanding that God’s transformative work in your life is a testament to His love and faithfulness. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide you, renewing your mind and empowering you to walk in Apostolic holiness each day.
Conclusion: A Life Set Apart
Living a life of Apostolic holiness is not an unattainable ideal but a daily choice to align our lives with God’s divine standard. As we implement practical tips for everyday sanctification, we become vessels of God’s light in a world that yearns for the transformative power of His holiness. May our lives be a living testimony to the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, drawing others closer to the beauty of a life set apart for God’s glory.
