since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”

1 Peter 1: 16

If you’ve read through the first couple of thoughts on the Holiness of God, you might feel a little intimidated. If God’s Holiness is unimaginable to our way of thinking, what are we to do? How can we respond to the verse above? How can we be holy?

Peter answered the question in the verses that preceded his quote from Leviticus 19:2. –

Therefore, preparing your minds for action^, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance,  but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct,

1 Peter 1:13-15

The Psalmist answers this way –

How can a young man keep his way pure?
    By guarding it according to your word.
 With my whole heart I seek you;
    let me not wander from your commandments!
 I have stored up your word in my heart,
    that I might not sin against you.

Psalm 119:9-11

Peter and the Psalmist both encourage us to put our trust completely in God and His word and then to live our lives accordingly.