Words With Weight: Holy

There are some words in our vocabulary that receive less regard than they deserve. We might think of the Lord’s name as an example — the flippant and irreverent use that is common in our society and perhaps even in our own speech. But what about the words that help speak to the character of God? What about a word like “holy”? I am a big fan of seasonings — Hannah could tell you all about it — and I see seasonings regularly that use the word “holy.” The word might not be on the same plane as God’s name, but I think a reminder of the weight of such a word is beneficial.

The Scriptures will not be found using the word “holy” lightly. It is not a word that is meant for decoration - it is not a poetic way to spice up God. Rather, it is a definition of who God is. The seraphim are seen extolling God in Isaiah 6:3, “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!” Their repetition is with purpose, not merely to emphasize, but to make an attempt to use human language to express what human terms fail to measure. Holiness is meant in regard to God’s “other-ness.” It is declaring Him as absolute — absolute moral perfection, absolute purity, absolute separation from sin and darkness. John described it this way, “God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.” (1 Jn 1:5)

Something of stark importance is recognizing that this term not only defines God but is also part of the summons to be His people. 1 Peter 1:16, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” To be holy is to be set apart — claimed, owned, and shaped for God’s purposes. In Leviticus 10:10, God instructed the priests to see and show, as God sees, the distinction between holy and common. We live in a time where we have blurred that line, but Scripture still leaves a bold mark on the page. Scripture declares what belongs to God and what does not. Holiness is living as though that difference matters — and it does.

Holiness is not obtained only by avoidance, but also by assimilation — what we become. It is not only turning from one thing, but turning to God with full commitment. It is a pursuit, one that must be undergone to stand in God’s presence (Heb 12:14). It is not self-made, but Christ-given (1 Cor 6:11). Holiness touches everything — speech, affection, actions, thoughts, priorities, and much more.

Holiness is a weighty word because it is a costly word. Those who belong to God must bear His likeness — even holiness. We may never grasp it fully until we meet Him, but here on earth, we can demonstrate it distinctly.