There is an attribute of God that seems to be forgotten by “Christians” today. It is also symptomatic of a low view of God, exemplified in bringing God down to our level. He is simply the “man upstairs.” “These things hast thou done, and I kept silence; thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself: but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes” (Psalms 50:21). The “awe” is lost and “worship” is more about being entertained with spiffy music and a non-biblical, non-convicting story time. 

God is holy, and He calls His children to live holy lives. “According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love” (Ephesians 1:4). Is that your heart’s desire?

I’ve been rereading Jerry Bridges book The Pursuit of Holiness. He used two of my favorite verses in describing making right decisions. 

“But what about issues that are not specifically mentioned in the Scriptures—how do we determine God’s will and develop conviction in those areas? Years ago a friend gave me what he called his “Formula: How to Know Right from Wrong.” 

The formula asks four questions based on three verses in 1 Corinthians: Everything is permissible for me—but not everything is beneficial . 

Question 1: Is it helpful—physically, spiritually, and mentally?
“‘All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.” (1 Corinthians 6:12). 

Question 2: Does it bring me under its power? 
“Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.” (1 Corinthians 8:13). 

Question 3: Does it hurt others?
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). 

Question 4: Does it glorify God?”

Brothers, our world is in a downward spiral. I plead with you, don’t get pulled down with it. 

(Another great book is Holinessby J.C. Ryle)