Daily Devotions
The Way of Holiness
Reading for July 24th: Isaiah 35-37
And a highway shall be there,
and it shall be called the Way of Holiness...
Isaiah 35:8
Holiness is an essential part of our calling. We have been made holy by the sacrifice of our Savior (Heb 13:12), and are called to be holy because God is holy (1 Pet 1:16). Like the Israelites, we are called a holy priesthood and nation (1 Pet 2:5, 9). Beyond that, we are called a holy temple (Eph 2:21). We have been called to cleanse ourselves from all that defiles (2 Tim 2:21; 2 Cor 7:1), and are told that without holiness that no one will see the Lord (Heb 12:14).
This way is not easy. It is a way that goes against the grain of society. It is a way that pushes against the values and priorities of our world. That's why we are to encourage and strengthen one another. We are to look out for each other in order to strengthen the "weak hands" and the "feeble knees" (Isa 35:3).
So do not grow discouraged, weary pilgrim! Look to Jesus who is "the way, the truth, and the life!" (Jn 14:6) See the goal that is set before us and press on!
And the ransomed of the Lord shall return
and come to Zion with singing;
everlasting joy shall be upon their heads;
they shall obtain gladness and joy,
and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.
Isaiah 35:10
Father, sanctify us by your truth! Grant us the strength, courage, and stamina we need to walk this highway of holiness, led by our Savior who has blazed the trail for us to follow!
