More Than Morals

Read

1 Peter 1:15–16 “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”

Think

What comes to mind when you hear the word “holy”? For a lot of people, it feels untouchable—reserved for monks, nuns, or someone who never watches Netflix and always says “bless you.” Holiness often gets lumped into the same mental file as rule-following, guilt-tripping, and rigid religion. But biblically? Holiness is far more beautiful—and far more essential.

Let’s clear something up: holiness isn’t primarily about doing. It’s about belonging. The word “holy” in Greek—hagios—means “set apart,” “different,” “other.” And in Scripture, things (yes, even bowls and oil!) were called holy not because they were morally pure but because they were dedicated to God’s purposes. Holiness, then, begins with identity. Before it's about behavior, it’s about who you belong to.

That’s why Peter doesn’t say “act holy so you can be holy.” He says, “you’ve been called by the Holy One—so let that shape everything you do.” Holiness isn’t a ladder you climb. It’s a gift you receive and a life you grow into. Still, this can feel confusing in a culture where “different” often equals “judgmental.” If holiness means being set apart, does that mean we have to isolate or withdraw? Not at all. Jesus was the holiest person who ever lived—and he was also the most approachable. Kids ran to him. Sinners dined with him. He didn’t conform, but he also didn’t condemn. His life was saturated in compassion, truth, humility, and power. That’s what holiness looks like in the flesh.

C.S. Lewis said, “How little people know who think that holiness is dull. When one meets the real thing... it is irresistible.” Holiness is not beige. It’s not bland. It’s burning-bright, vibrant, and alive. When you’re becoming holy, you’re not becoming less human—you’re becoming the most fully alive version of yourself in Christ.

The question is, how do we pursue it? Not by white-knuckling our way through life or obsessing over every mistake. We grow in holiness the way a branch grows fruit: by staying connected to the vine. The closer you walk with Jesus, the more his character rubs off on you. Holiness isn’t about sin-avoidance—it’s about soul-surrender. It’s not about avoiding bad things. It’s about being consumed by a better love.

The good news? You don’t have to feel holy to be holy. If you’re in Christ, you’ve already been made holy in position (Hebrews 10:10). Now, day by day, the Spirit is helping you grow in practice. Holiness isn’t about perfection—it’s about direction. It’s about choosing, again and again, to align your life with the One who called you his own.

Apply

Think of one area in your life where God might be inviting you to live “set apart.” Is it in your conversations? Your calendar? Your cravings? Write it down—and ask God to shape it for his purpose.

Pray

God, you are holy—and you’ve called me to live like I belong to you. I confess that I often settle for comfort over calling. Teach me to see holiness not as pressure, but as purpose. Help me walk with you today, set apart by your grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.