Matthew 5:47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?

We often equate holiness to being legalistic or boring. On the contrary, it is a beautiful thing. God, who is holy, also calls us to be holy - to do more than others, to behave differently, to live a life that is cut above the rest.

Three reasons why we need to live a holy life:

1. Because of our profession

2. When we profess that we are a Christian, we commit to a higher standard of living. "...live a life worthy of the calling you have received." Ephesians 4:1 NIV

3. Because of who we are

4. When we become a Christian, we take on a new nature. "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." - Galatians 2:20 NIV

5. Because of our purpose

6. We are called to be the salt and light of the world. “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." - Matthew 5:13-16 NIV

Living a holy life is not easy, but with God's grace, we can do it. Let your light shine for others to see!