Holiness Part 8 by Tanner – age 18

“IF YOU KNOW GOD, YOU KNOW WHAT HE DESIRES OF YOU, AND IF YOU LOVE GOD, YOU DO WHAT HE DESIRES OF YOU.”

The response I have gotten to preaching holiness from many Christians is “nobody is perfect.” This comment means the same thing and has the same mindset as; “We all sin.” Basically what these people are saying is that sin is acceptable. Which is a total lie according to 1 John and Romans 3:8, but what I want to address is this issue people have with “perfection.” Perfection is possible and it isn’t man’s idea of perfection. God’s perfection is attainable, but only through His power. How do we know it’s possible? Let’s look at scripture…Matthew 5:48; “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your father which is in heaven is perfect.” James 1:4; “But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” John also said in one of his letters “I tell you this that you may not sin.” Why would Jesus say to be perfect if we can’t be? Why would James speak as though perfection was possible if he thought it wasn’t possible? Why would John care about you not sinning if it is impossible not to? God desires us to be perfect and we do not want to sin. God is a perfect God and He has the power to change us back into his image. The only thing we have to do is tell Him what we desire (His perfection) and surrender to His grace and power that changes us into our created value so that more of His children can be truly reconciled. What everything comes down to is intimate relationship with God. If you know God, you know what he desires of you, and if you love God, you do what He desires of you. In 1 John it clearly says, “He that says ‘I know Him(God)’ and keepeth not His commands, is a liar and the truth is not in him.” If Christians would simply set their hearts to know God, without any ulterior motives, just want to know and love God…they would be able to walk in the fullness of what God has called them to. If you fix your gaze upon the Lord and listen to Him and obey Him…you will be perfect- you will be holy –you will be His bride. Just love Him.