Pure and Reverent Lives

I had this thought today (I’ve actually had it many times but today I put pen to paper)…We live in a world that celebrates compromise and self-indulgence and pursuit of our own happiness. Living a life of purity and reverence feels countercultural and radical. Yet, as believers, we are set apart—called to holiness not out of duty, but out of love for the One who redeemed us. If this truly is the case then our lives should reflect the purity of Christ, not as a burden, but as an act of worship.

There is a bit of scripture that captured me today and it’s from 1 Peter 3:1-2….“In the same way, you wives must accept the authority of your husbands. Then, even if some refuse to obey the Good News, your godly lives will speak to them without any words. They will be won over by observing your pure and reverent lives.” This bit of scripture is referring to the marriage relationship to someone who is not a believer, however couldn’t this be true for everyone? Living a life that can win over people without even using words!

Scripture Readings

• 1 Peter 1:15-16 – “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”

• Philippians 2:14-15 – “Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky.”

• Psalm 24:3-4 – “Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? The one who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not trust in an idol or swear by a false god.”

Reflection

To live a pure and reverent life is to align our thoughts, actions, and desires with God’s holiness. Purity is not just about avoiding sin or obeying some moral code—it’s about pursuing righteousness. It’s a daily surrender, a refining process where we allow the Holy Spirit to shape our hearts and transform our minds. It takes time.

Reverence, on the other hand, is our posture before God. It’s an awareness of His majesty, a deep respect for His presence, and a commitment to honor Him in all we do. When we revere God, we don’t take His grace for granted; instead, we respond with gratitude and obedience.

In practical terms, purity and reverence are reflected in how we speak, how we think, and how we treat others. Do our words build up or tear down? Do our thoughts dwell on what is noble, true, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8)? Do our actions reflect Christ’s love and character?

Application

1. Examine Your Heart – Ask God to reveal areas in your life that need cleansing. Is there anything that is hindering your walk with Him?

2. Guard Your Mind – Be mindful of what you allow into your thoughts. Choose to dwell on what is holy and uplifting.

3. Live Set Apart – Remember that holiness is not about legalism, but about devotion. Make daily choices that reflect your love for Christ.

4. Revere God in Worship – Approach God with awe and gratitude in prayer, in how you handle His Word, and in how you conduct your life.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, You are holy, and You have called me to walk in Your ways. Give me a pure heart and a reverent spirit, that I may honor You in all I do. Remove anything in me that is not pleasing to You, and help me to live a life that reflects Your love and truth. May my thoughts, words, and actions be set apart for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.