“Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” 2 Corinthians 7:1

”Therefore” connects this verse with the rich promises listed in chapter 6 - “I will dwell in them and walk among them (verse 16) … I will be their God, and they shall be My people (verse 16) … I will welcome you (verse 17) … I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to Me” (verse 18).

We must not miss the point: a life of holiness is not a way to earn God's acceptance; it is the response by those who have already been given His promises. Because we belong to God through Christ in covenant, we are called to live like those who belong to Him.

The call to holy living is to “cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit.” This is a proactive choice to decisively deal with actions and attitudes that are in opposition to our covenant-making Father. This is a call to repentance, and repentance is more than confessing regrets; it is making a deliberate decision to turn away from what is wrong.

The idea of “perfecting holiness” is that of bringing something toward completion or maturity. The call is not for instant perfection (an impossibility), but that of a continuing work of spiritual growth. The issue is not that of merely avoiding sin, but of growing in Christ-likeness.

Grace and forgiveness are the basis for growth in holiness. We do not seek to live in holiness to earn acceptance; we do so in gratitude for already being accepted.

We examine our actions and attitudes. We do not tolerate what God calls us to remove. Gratitude for grace shifts the priority from minimum standards to a heartfelt pursuit of spiritual maturity.

Be sure to also see Amazon ebook & print devotional and podcast: New Day Dawning.