“Holiness means something more than the sweeping away of the old leaves of sin; it means the life of Jesus developed in us.”- Lilias Trotter
“I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.”- Psalm 119:11
In Chapter 6 (“The Pathway of Holiness- Put On”) of Holiness, Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth stresses the toxic nature of sin. Thus, sin contaminates to the core of the human soul.
However, holiness involves more than putting off sinful practices. We also must put on righteousness. hence, we need to intentionally cultivate putting on the heart of Christ.
As a result, the author discusses six means God uses to draw us near to Him. Nancy discusses the first two today.
1. The Word. Nancy describes God’s Word as a most vital agent of sanctification in the life of a believer. Specifically, the Word possesses the power to :
- cleanse
- renew our minds
- transform us into the image of Christ
In addition, Nancy states that reading, studying, memorizing, and meditating on Scripture guards and purifies us from sin. Furthermore, it stimulates growth in grace.
2. Confession. The author points out that even if we don’t deliberately conceal our sin, we must consciously confess that sin in order to prosper spiritually. Nancy explains:
“Many Christians are bowed down under the heavy load of a guilty conscience with hits physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual consequences — all because they do not regularly confess their sins to God.”
Today’s question: What Bible verses enable you to sweep away the old leaves of sin? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Day in, day out accountability”
