Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord. (Heb 12:14 NLT) This verse is a minefield. There is one way to go through it in safety and another way that will get you blown up.

The path of holiness takes intention.

Working at holiness will get you nowhere. If you act a certain way, never say certain words, eat the right food and never drink certain drinks–that should do it. Shouldn’t it? No. It’s not what goes in someone’s mouth that defiles you. (Mat 15:11) Your actions should reflect a lifestyle of holiness, but that won’t make you holy. But without holiness, you won’t see God!

Only God can make you holy. Only by the blood of Jesus can you be cleansed and sanctified. Jesus must be your Lord and Savior. Working at living a holy life is to pursue Jesus, to want more from Him everyday. If you ever get complacent in your faith, you’re in danger of walking off His path.

Work takes intention. You don’t maintain holiness casually. You must allow the Holy Spirit to convict you when you sin. Humility must be a lifestyle. And as you pursue holiness, your life will reflect peace.

Another post on holiness: Yeah, You Can Be Holy