May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thessalonians 5:23
To summarize, sanctification is the same Greek word as holiness, “hagios,” meaning a separation. First, a once-for-all positional separation unto Christ at our salvation. Second, a practical progressive holiness in a believer’s life while awaiting the return of Christ. Third, we will be changed into His perfect likeness—holy, sanctified, and completely separated from the presence of evil. Sanctify them by[a] the truth; your word is truth. John 17:17
As a believer our hearts truly do begin to change. We become transformed and things that once thrilled or tempted us no longer appeal to us. The Lord's love for you and for me and our love for Him takes over worldly desires. We "separate" ourselves of things past which come in the ways of sin and death. A truly saved person does this without effort and with ease. I watched my husband quit smoking, which was over a 20 year one pack plus a day habit, without a patch, pill or therapy. No side effects, no grouchiness, pure deliverance from the Lord. His heart changed from inward therefore his outward lifestyle began to reflect God's goodness, not man's filthy habits. We continue to be sanctified so that we become more and more like Christ. We die to ourselves and live for Him and through Him. It is a fascinating biblical topic to study or present to your bible group. It is yet another amazing, consistent example of the Word's truth for there are scriptures upon scriptures written about this. So it is my prayer for you that you are one with Christ and that everyone you come in contact with knows you are a child of God because of your actions, not because of your words. For sitting in church pew on Sunday does not make a Christian, nor does us sitting in a garage make us a car. It is by actions and faith that will draw others to you and want what you have. And what a privilege and honor it then is to share the most wonderful story of the Lord with another, all to glorify and honor Him.
"Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work".
2 Timothy 2:21
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