For the Scriptures say, “You must be holy because I am holy.”
1 Peter 1:16
God gives a simple, yet powerful command in 1 Peter 1:16. It’s short; it’s sweet, and it says, “Be holy.” That is, sanctify yourself; consecrate and set yourself apart for the Lord. But what does it look like? What’s required to be like that? Dr. J.I. Packer says this; he says, “To live with your ‘thorn’ uncomplainingly that is, [to live with suffering] sweetly, patiently, and free in heart to love and help others, even though every day you feel weak that is true sanctification. It is true healing for the spirit. It is a supreme victory of grace.” Well there you have it. The next time suffering begins to encroach, be holy; that is, bite your tongue from complaining, show patience, yield to God without resentment, and trust him in your hardship. Do this and you are on your way to holiness, becoming like the Lord that you love.
You may be carrying a load that is heavy and painful. But Jesus is never so near as when you face trials with a patient and uncomplaining spirit. He will use those trials to increase courage, mature wisdom and deepen peace.
