~ 1 Peter 1:15–16
Peter reaches back into the book of Leviticus when he reminds believers of God’s timeless call: “Be holy, for I am holy.” Holiness in Scripture means “set apart.” It is not about being flawless in human strength, but about belonging entirely to God, reflecting His character in every part of life.
Notice Peter’s phrase: “in all your conduct.” In the Greek, the word anastrophē means lifestyle, behavior, or manner of living. Holiness is not confined to prayer or worship gatherings—it touches how we think, speak, eat, work, rest, and treat others. God’s holiness is not partial, and our reflection of Him must not be either.
This ties beautifully into the Biblical Health message. Just as Israel was called to live differently from surrounding nations—including in their diet, hygiene, and lifestyle—Christians today are called to show God’s holiness in the way we care for our bodies. Peter’s audience lived in a pagan world of indulgence and immorality, not unlike our own. The temptation then, as now, was to blend in. But Peter urges believers to stand out—not in arrogance, but in devotion.
Why health? Because holiness is holistic. Paul echoes this in 1 Thessalonians 5:23: “May your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless.” When we neglect the body, overindulge in harmful habits, or treat our health carelessly, we deny God’s call to holiness in all our conduct. By contrast, when we steward our health with wisdom—choosing foods that nourish, practicing rest, exercising self-control—we honor the God who gave us life.
Holiness also protects us. God’s laws for Israel weren’t random restrictions; many safeguarded them from disease and preserved strength. Likewise, modern Christians who apply Biblical health principles often discover the blessings of clearer minds, stronger bodies, and deeper energy for service. These are not ends in themselves, but gifts that equip us to better serve His kingdom.
But we must also remember: holiness is not about legalism. We cannot make ourselves holy by rules or diets. Holiness flows from relationship—He who calls us is holy. Because we belong to Him, our lives begin to reflect His purity, His discipline, and His love. The Spirit within us transforms both heart and habit, from the inside out.
Today, Peter’s words invite us to examine every corner of our lifestyle: Is my conduct—physical, spiritual, relational—showing that I belong to the Holy One? When people look at my life, can they glimpse His purity and love? Holiness is not about perfection, but direction: daily choosing to align our lives with His.
Prayer: Holy Father, You are pure, perfect, and set apart. Thank You for calling me to belong to You. Help me to reflect Your holiness in every part of my life—in body, mind, and spirit. Teach me to live in such a way that others see Your character in me. Amen.
