Michael E. Wood
October 10, 2014
As obedient children, do not be conformed to the
passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is
holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You
shall be holy, for I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:14-16
Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without
which no one will see the Lord. Hebrews 12:14
“Holiness is the habit of being of one mind with God,
according as we find His mind described in scripture. It is the habit of
agreeing in God’s judgment – hating what He hates – loving what He loves – and measuring
everything in this world by the standard of His Word.” (p. 64, Holiness, J.C. Ryle)
“… true holiness is a great reality. It is something in a
man that can be seen, and known, and marked, and felt by all around him. It is
light: if it exists, it will show itself. It is salt: if it exists, its savour
will be perceived. It is precious ointment: if it exists, its presence can not
be hid.” (p. 69, Holiness, J.C. Ryle)
“Habitual lively faith in Christ’s presence and readiness to
help is the secret of the Christian soldier fighting successfully.
It must never be forgotten that faith admits
of degrees. All men do not believe alike, and even the same person has his ebbs
and flows of faith, and believes more heartily at one time than another.” (p. 91,
Holiness, J.C. Ryle)
I am often amazed at the provision of God in meeting us as
His children right in the place of our need. Recently I had the privilege of
attending one session of a men’s conference focusing on “godliness” at Grace Bible Church in Fair
Oaks , California
Oh, help me now, as I pursue
The holiness in which to view
The face of Him who took my place
And died to save me by Your grace.
So freely now I come to You
Who raised me up to walk anew
And ask that You would make me know
Each step that You would have me go.
For as I think and contemplate
Of all You’ve spoken here of late,
It seems I have so far to go
To honor You by how I grow.
And though I know it makes You smile
When I just sit with You awhile
And listen to all You have said.
Oh, Christ, my living, worthy head
Help me show forth by righteous deeds
That others see that grace proceeds
To change us for Your glory now
By each degree until we bow
Before Your throne and give the praise
For all You’ve done through all our days
And see in perfect love, Your face,
Oh God of glory; God of grace.