Scripture
23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you through and through [that is, separate you from profane and vulgar things, make you pure and whole and undamaged—consecrated to Him—set apart for His purpose]; and may your spirit and soul and body be kept complete and [be found] blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Faithful and absolutely trustworthy is He who is calling you [to Himself for your salvation], and He will do it [He will fulfill His call by making you holy, guarding you, watching over you, and protecting you as His own].
Reflection
To “sanctify” means to “set apart to make holy” Since God is holy what He is doing is making us more and more into his image, a likeness which can be seen in Jesus who was both fully human and fully God. Holiness then is about a change in our nature, something that happens on the inside which is a work of God – He will do it! For example, since God is a God of peace then those who are holy are of the same peace; body, soul and spirit. Peaceful people sow seeds which bring forth a harvest of right living with God (Ps. Dale).
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell us about God and people?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- What is one way you can apply this truth to your life today?
- Who can you encourage with this story/message?
Prayer
Pray (silently) for the people who are seated close to you as you read this.
