PRAISE PROMPT ••• 2 Timothy 1:9 NLT says, “For God saved us and called us to live a holy life. He did this, not because we deserved it, but because that was his plan from before the beginning of time—to show us his grace through Christ Jesus.”
When we think of ourselves, I don’t think many would describe ourselves as holy.
That’s not the first word that leaps to mind when I’m describing myself.
But I think it boils down to the definition.
Many view the word to mean “perfect,” with a spiritual bow on top.
But it really means “dedicated to God,” or “devoted to the service of God.”
If I use those definitions, I can say, “Yes, I’m holy.”
It also means “set apart.”
In John 17:14,16-17,19, Jesus prayed, “I have given them your word. And the world hates them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. They do not belong to this world any more than I do. Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth. And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth.”
This was His prayer right before He was betrayed by Judas.
And if you’ve ever had any doubt that Jesus died specifically for you, consider this: He included you in this prayer.
In verse 20, Jesus prayed, “I am praying not only for these disciples but also FOR ALL WHO WILL EVER BELIEVE IN ME through their message.” (Emphasis mine.)
Humbling, isn’t it?
The Son of God prayed for you and me before His execution 2000 years ago!
And when He died for our sins, then rose from the dead, He made all of us who believe holy by His Truth.
When you consider all that, how can we not strive to live holy lives?
How can we not live dedicated and devoted to God?
And can others see our devotion by the way we live?
Today, let’s praise the Savior who died to make us holy.
Let’s thank Him for praying for us before His death.
And let’s renew our devotion to live holy lives for the One who gave us life.
