Holiness, that is YOUR goal! 1 Corinthians 7:1

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

Paul wrote to the people in Corinthians warning them, encouraging them, and then telling them the positive action he noted. In 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 Paul talks about the temple of the living God (you) and tells of the promise that we, you and I, will be sons and daughters of the LORD Almighty.

1 Corinthians 7:1 "Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God."

Separation from the world involves more than keeping our distance from sinful practices; it means staying close to God. It involves more than avoiding worldly entertainment; it extends to how we spend our time and money. There is no way to separate ourselves totally from all sinful influences. That being said, we, you and I, are to resist the sin around us, without either giving up or giving in.

When you know what God wants you to do, make a clean break with sinful practices. Cleansing has two meanings: turning away from sin, AND turning toward God. The Corinthians (put you name in here) is to have nothing to do with paganism. I (your name) will break from my past and give myself to God alone.

Working toward complete holiness means perfecting holiness or becoming mature and complete as a Christian. Paul is not saying we will have a sinless life, but that we, you and I, should work at maturing in our faith.

God has given us the resources and Christ's spirit will empower you to become Christlike (Roman 8:2). Go forth my friend, mature in Christ and lead others. Faith, not doubt, but FAITH! Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny