Originally published Monday, 22 July 2013.
www.insideoutwithcourtnaye.org
If you’re reading this right now, then it’s not by chance that you are. I’m sure there were many other things that you could’ve read today, but the Lord led you here. Why? I believe it’s because of His great love for you and His immense desire for you to become that holy vessel that He can use for His amazing service and glory for such a time as this. Jesus wants us to be lights to a dying world, just as He was. But that will also require personal holiness on our part to help win the souls around us. It’s sooooo not about us after we’ve been set-free. Now, we have to live a life that will draw others to Christ…and the time is now. Will you answer the call?
Let me start by saying that the term holy simply means, “perfect in goodness and righteousness” (according to the Webster Dictionary). Hence, we know that none of us are actually perfect in goodness and righteousness by our own account, but it’s through Christ that we exemplify these character traits. Yet, God still requires us to be holy, because He is holy.
Now before I go any further, I will say that holiness is not about a bunch of rules and regulations and do’s and don’ts, as many people think. Instead, it’s a lifestyle according to Scripture, and it stems from the heart. Furthermore, it’s not a suggestion, but a command. God didn’t ask me one day, “Courtnaye, do you want to be holy today?” Yet, through His Word He said, “Be ye holy, for I am holy.” Trust me, to accomplish this it takes a willing and obedient heart. And I’m not saying that it’s easy, because holiness is a daily, surrendered choice. However, I do know that God works through us, giving us the desire to obey him and the power to do what pleases him. (Philippians 2:13-NLT) Amen!
So with that being said, let’s begin Part I of this series, where I’m talking about godly speech and conduct. I pray this will help as you walk in holiness in your everyday life (by the way…these Scriptures have really helped me tremendously, and still are in full effect in my life today). Ready? Okay…here goes.
The Lord is calling you to be holy in your speech, conversations, and conduct. Colossians 3:8 says, “But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language.” (NLT) Have you ever been around a person who professes to be a Christian, but then you hear their conversation full of gossip or slander or cursing like crazy (or even a little bit)? Are you that person or do you know someone who does this?
Or how about using what I call the Christian curse word that many people think is okay to use in a conversation like, “I’m peed off?” Ouch! (some of you know what I'm talking about) But what is that about?! It’s totally out of context! The world would be in total agreement on this. But we cannot do this, because we’re delivered, set-apart, and called to holiness. We must know that this would be a tough witness or example to the life of faith with anyone. And even if you hear someone cursing around you...pray for them. Colossians 4:5-6 reminds us to, “Live wisely among those who are not Christians, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious (seasoned with salt) and effective so that you will have the right answer for everyone.” It’s hard for a non-believer to take you seriously, if you’re acting just like them. Not only that, but it’s hard to be effective for the Kingdom with a bad mouth or bad attitude.
Listen, know that this is about personal holiness, and it’s an on-going process for all of us. Our holiness behind closed doors, out in the open, in our thought life, with our family and friends, neighbors, co-workers, church family, and beyond is so important to the Lord. And if there’s any guilt from any of the above, I encourage you to surrender it to God today. He is faithful to forgive you when you confess it and repent, and He’ll cleanse you from all unrighteousness (See 1 John 1:9). I’ve been there.
The bottom line is that Jesus wants us to be lights to a dying world and to those who are struggling or need to be encouraged around us daily by our character. The world needs true godly examples, not more hypocrites. And as sisters in Christ, we need to build each other up, not tear one another down with our mouths. We must be lights that shine bright for Christ. In Matthew 5:15-16 Jesus says, “Don’t hide your light under a basket! Instead, put it on a stand and let it shine for all…let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” That’s what it’s all about, sis. So let’s do this with the power of the Holy Spirit! Be ye holy, because God is holy. He’s calling you…pick up.
Remember, Jesus is coming back soon! And those who endure unto the end shall be saved. So let’s get ready from the Inside Out!
~Courtnaye
P.S.
Join me next week for Part II. In the meantime, I encourage you to search the Scriptures on a more in-depth study on holiness as it relates to godly speech and conduct. I’m also referencing a book entitled, “Time Out for Holiness at Home” by Julie Baker. Check it out here…http://www.amazon.com/Time-Holiness-Home-Book-Series/dp/0781434610.
*Thanks for reading! Feel absolutely free to ask a question or leave a comment. Tune in every Monday at 7:30am for new posts! And don’t forget to “Like” my Facebook page and share this blog with friends, family, co-workers, or your women’s group or ministry (search for Inside Out with Courtnaye). I’d love to stay connected and help more women grow in the Lord! Thanks again and may God be with you!
SHARE
