Title: HOLINESS IN BELIEFS AND VALUES
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.”
Supporting Texts:
Ephesians 4:22-24
2 Corinthians 10:5
1 Peter 1:13-16
Colossians 3:1-10
Titus 2:11-12
INTRODUCTION:
Our beliefs and values shape how we live, interact with others, and relate to God. As Christians, it is essential that our beliefs and values align with God’s Word, reflecting holiness in all areas of life. Holiness in our beliefs and values involves rejecting worldly standards and adopting godly perspectives that are consistent with the character of God. This study will explore how holiness can transform our worldview, attitudes, and the values that guide our decisions.
1. RENEWED MIND AND HOLINESS IN BELIEFS
Holiness in our beliefs begins with a renewed mind, where we discard worldly values and embrace God’s truth.
a) The Mind is Transformed by God’s Word
The process of renewing our mind involves daily immersion in God’s Word, which reshapes our thinking and beliefs (Romans 12:2).
b) Rejecting the World’s Influence
To live holy lives, we must reject the philosophies and ideologies of the world that do not align with God’s truth (1 John 2:15-17).
c) Embracing God’s Truth and Wisdom
Holiness in beliefs requires us to seek God’s wisdom and truth above all else, aligning our thoughts with His divine will (Proverbs 3:5-6).
d) Transformation Leads to Righteous Living
A renewed mind results in a life that reflects God’s holiness, where our thoughts and beliefs are in harmony with His purposes (Ephesians 4:22-24).
e) Biblical Example:
The apostle Paul exemplified this renewed mindset, as he taught the Philippians to focus on things that are pure, lovely, and of good report (Philippians 4:8).
2. HOLINESS IN VALUES THROUGH OBEDIENCE TO GOD'S WILL
Our values must be founded on obedience to God’s will, which leads us to pursue righteousness and holiness.
a) Living According to God’s Standards
God’s standards should be the foundation of our values, guiding how we live and make decisions (Titus 2:11-12).
b) Rejecting Sinful Practices and Embracing Righteousness
Living holy lives requires us to reject sinful practices and choose values that reflect God's righteousness (Romans 6:13).
c) The Importance of Integrity in Our Values
A person of holiness will hold fast to values of honesty, integrity, and purity, reflecting God's character in all situations (Proverbs 12:22).
d) Holiness in Values Requires Self-Control
Living according to godly values requires self-control, particularly in the face of temptation and worldly pressures (Galatians 5:22-23).
e) Biblical Example:
Joseph’s refusal to sin with Potiphar’s wife (Genesis 39:7-12) demonstrated his commitment to maintaining holy values despite temptation.
3. HOLINESS IN BELIEFS: RIGHTLY DIVIDING THE WORD OF TRUTH
To have holy beliefs, we must ensure that our understanding of God’s Word is accurate and aligned with His intentions.
a) Study and Meditation on God’s Word
Holiness in beliefs requires a deep, committed study of the Scriptures, allowing the Holy Spirit to reveal its true meaning (2 Timothy 2:15).
b) Avoiding False Teachings
Holiness in our beliefs requires vigilance against false doctrines and teachings that distort the truth of God’s Word (1 Timothy 4:16).
c) Holding Fast to Sound Doctrine
We must hold firmly to sound biblical teaching, ensuring that our beliefs are rooted in the truth of the Gospel (Titus 1:9).
d) Practicing the Word in Our Lives
Holy beliefs go beyond intellectual understanding; they must be applied to our daily lives and actions (James 1:22-25).
e) Biblical Example:
The Bereans in Acts 17:11 searched the Scriptures daily to ensure that Paul’s teachings aligned with God’s truth, exemplifying holiness in belief.
4. HOLINESS IN VALUES REFLECTS CHRISTLIKE CHARACTER
Our values should reflect the character of Christ, who embodies holiness and righteousness in every aspect of His life.
a) Christ's Example of Humility and Service
Jesus taught us that holiness in values involves humility, servanthood, and a willingness to put others before ourselves (Philippians 2:5-8).
b) Love as the Foundation of Our Values
Holiness in values requires love to be at the center, as it is the greatest commandment and the essence of God’s character (1 Corinthians 13:1-7).
c) Forgiveness and Grace in Our Values
Just as Christ has forgiven us, our values should include forgiveness and grace towards others, reflecting God’s mercy (Matthew 18:21-22).
d) Living Out the Beatitudes
The values of the Kingdom of God, as described in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12), should characterize our attitudes and responses to life’s challenges.
e) Biblical Example:
Jesus' life is the ultimate example of holiness in values. In every interaction, He demonstrated love, humility, forgiveness, and purity (Matthew 11:28-30).
5. HOLINESS IN BELIEFS AND VALUES PROMOTES SPIRITUAL GROWTH
When our beliefs and values are aligned with God’s holiness, they foster spiritual growth and maturity in our lives.
a) Holiness in Beliefs Leads to Personal Transformation
When we align our beliefs with God’s Word, it transforms our character and spiritual growth, bringing us closer to Christlikeness (2 Corinthians 3:18).
b) Holiness in Values Promotes Obedience and Discipline
When our values reflect God’s holiness, we are more inclined to obey Him and remain disciplined in our walk of faith (1 Timothy 4:7-8).
c) The Fruit of the Spirit is Evident in Our Lives
As our values and beliefs align with holiness, the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, and kindness—becomes evident in our daily lives (Galatians 5:22-23).
d) Spiritual Maturity Comes Through Holiness in Beliefs and Values
Holiness in our beliefs and values helps us grow in spiritual maturity, equipping us to be effective in serving God and others (Ephesians 4:15-16).
e) Biblical Example:
The apostle Paul’s transformation, from a persecutor of Christians to a dedicated apostle, exemplified how holy beliefs and values promote spiritual growth (Philippians 3:7-14).
CONCLUSION:
Holiness in our beliefs and values is foundational to our Christian walk. It requires a renewed mind, a commitment to God’s will, and the adoption of godly standards that reflect the character of Christ. As we align our beliefs and values with the Word of God, we experience personal transformation, spiritual growth, and a closer walk with God. Let us pursue holiness in every aspect of our beliefs and values, for it is the pathway to living a life that honors God.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, renew my mind and help me reject worldly values, so I may live according to Your will.
2. Father, help me align my beliefs with Your truth and seek Your wisdom above all else.
3. Lord, empower me to live according to Your holy standards, rejecting sin and embracing righteousness.
4. Father, grant me the strength to hold fast to sound doctrine and avoid the distractions of false teachings.
5. Lord, let my values reflect the character of Christ, and help me to love and serve others as He did.
6. Father, help me live out the Beatitudes, embodying humility, meekness, and a thirst for righteousness.
7. Lord, empower me to practice forgiveness and grace in my relationships, just as You have forgiven me.
8. Father, help me to grow in spiritual maturity, reflecting the fruit of the Spirit in my life.
9. Lord, teach me to be disciplined in my walk of faith, so that I may live a life that honors You.
10. Father, may my beliefs and values be transformed by Your holiness, leading me to greater intimacy with You.
