THURSDAY, JULY 6
Hebrews 12:1-17
Hebrews 12:14

"Follow… holiness, without which
no man shall see the Lord."

SANCTIFICATION IS A MUST FOR GOD’S PEOPLE (3)

If we want the holy God to be with us and use us for His glory, we must be sanctified and holy. If we keep walking with the Lord in His narrow way of sanctification, we shall see Him when He returns. "Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure" (1 John 3:2-3). What about you?

Sadly, many are deceiving themselves or are being deceived by others into thinking that they are saved and will surely see the Lord because they are active and are "faithful" members or pastors of their churches for years, when their life is unholy, ungodly and worldly! Will they see the Lord when He comes? Disappointingly, they shall be left behind in shame! The Lord Jesus has warned His followers: "I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left. Two women shall be grinding together; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left" (Luke 17:34-36). Many may be greatly respected and admired for their leadership, preaching, writing, prophesying, speaking in tongues, casting out demons, or performing miracles, and they expect great rewards from the Lord at His coming. But, without holiness they shall be shocked when the Lord Jesus professes to them, "I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity" (Matt 7:23). What about you?

God’s Word confirms, "Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord" (Heb 12:14). "No man" refers to any person without discrimination against age, gender, social status, denominations, religions, long service, etc. The holy and righteous God "will render to every man according to his deeds… For there is no respect of persons with God" (Rom 2:6, 11). Do you really want to see the Lord? You must be sanctified!

THOUGHT: Without holiness I shall not see the Lord!
PRAYER: Lord, sanctify me and keep me holy that I may see Thee.