God Requires Holiness from His People

Introduction

One of the most important themes in the Bible is holiness. From the beginning of Scripture to the end, God calls His people to live set apart lives that reflect His character. Holiness is not optional; it is the very foundation of our walk with God. Without holiness, no one can truly see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14). God does not merely suggest holiness; He requires it.

In this message, we will explore what holiness means, why God requires it, and how His people can walk in it daily.

1. God Himself is Holy

The first reason God requires holiness is because He is holy. Holiness is not simply one of His attributes; it is His very nature. The prophet Isaiah records a vision of the Lord on His throne:

“And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.” – Isaiah 6:3

Holiness means purity, separation from sin, and complete devotion to righteousness. God cannot compromise His holiness. For this reason, His people—those who belong to Him—must reflect His holiness.

“Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” – 1 Peter 1:16

This call to holiness is not based on human traditions or cultural standards but on the eternal nature of God Himself.

2. Holiness is God’s Requirement, Not an Option

Many believers view holiness as something extra or reserved for pastors and leaders. However, the Word of God makes it clear that holiness is required for all who belong to Him.

“Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.” – Hebrews 12:14

Holiness is not just about avoiding obvious sins; it is about being set apart for God’s purposes. In the Old Testament, God required Israel to be different from the nations around them. They were not to follow the customs of the world but to be separated unto Him.

“Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God.” – Leviticus 20:7

Just as Israel was required to be holy, so are we today. God is not looking for half-hearted devotion. He calls His people to be fully committed to Him in thought, word, and action.

3. Holiness in Thought and Heart

Holiness is not only about external behavior; it begins in the heart and mind. The Lord Jesus made it clear that sin is not just about actions but about the thoughts and desires of the heart.

“But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.” – Matthew 5:28

This shows that holiness goes deeper than what people can see. God searches the heart and expects His people to walk in purity inwardly as well as outwardly.

Paul also instructs believers:

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” – Romans 12:2

Holiness requires a mind renewed by the Word of God, focused on heavenly things rather than worldly pleasures.

4. Holiness in Conduct and Lifestyle

While holiness begins in the heart, it must also be demonstrated in how we live. Our daily choices, habits, and interactions must reflect that we are God’s people.

“Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ.” – Philippians 1:27

This means our lifestyle should align with the message we claim to believe. Believers are the light of the world (Matthew 5:14). When people see our conduct, they should see a reflection of God’s holiness.

Holiness is practical. It means refusing to lie, cheat, gossip, steal, or engage in sexual immorality. It means showing kindness, walking in love, speaking truth, and living with integrity.

“But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation.” – 1 Peter 1:15

5. The Power of the Spirit for Holiness

God does not leave His people to struggle for holiness on their own. He provides the strength and power to live holy lives through His Spirit.

“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” – Galatians 5:16

By walking in the Spirit, we overcome the power of sin and live in victory. The Spirit produces fruit in our lives such as love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23). These are the marks of a holy life.

Holiness is not about legalism or self-righteousness. It is about surrendering to God’s Spirit daily, allowing Him to cleanse us and shape us into the likeness of His Son.

6. The Blessings of Holiness

Holiness is not a burden but a blessing. God promises favor, protection, and fellowship to those who walk in holiness.

“The LORD will give strength unto his people; the LORD will bless his people with peace.” – Psalm 29:11

When believers live holy lives, they experience peace with God, clarity in decision-making, and joy in His presence. Holiness also gives us boldness in prayer, for we come before God with clean hands and pure hearts.

Moreover, holiness impacts others. When the world sees holy living, they are drawn to the light of God’s truth. Holiness becomes a testimony that points people to salvation.

7. The Danger of Neglecting Holiness

On the other hand, neglecting holiness leads to spiritual compromise and separation from God. Scripture warns that those who continue in unholiness will not inherit the kingdom of God.

“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.” – 1 Corinthians 6:9–10

This is a serious warning. God is merciful and forgiving, but He also requires repentance and a turning away from sin. We cannot claim to belong to Him while living in disobedience.

8. Practical Steps Toward Holiness

To walk in holiness daily, believers can take practical steps:

Study the Word of God regularly – Psalm 119:9 says, “Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.”
Pray for strength and guidance – Holiness requires dependence on God through prayer.
Flee from temptation – Like Joseph who fled from Potiphar’s wife, we must avoid environments that lead to sin (Genesis 39:12).
Surround yourself with godly fellowship – 1 Corinthians 15:33 warns, “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.”
Examine yourself daily – 2 Corinthians 13:5 urges believers to test themselves to ensure they are walking in the faith.

Conclusion

God requires holiness from His people because He is holy, because it is the pathway to fellowship with Him, and because it is the evidence of a transformed life. Holiness is not optional; it is the mark of true belonging to God.

As Hebrews 12:14 reminds us, “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.”

Let us, therefore, commit ourselves to walk in holiness daily—both in heart and conduct—depending on the Spirit of God to strengthen us. In doing so, we will reflect His glory, enjoy His blessings, and be ready for His coming.