Displaying Gods Holiness - Drawing Near - John MacArthur Hallowed be Thy name (Matt. 6:9). We have learned that hallowing Gods name requires setting it apart from everything common, and giving Him first place in our lives. That starts with believing He exists. Hebrews 11:6 says, He who comes to God must believe that He is. Beyond mere belief, you must also know the kind of God He is. Many people who claim to believe in God arent hallowing His name because they have erroneous concepts of who He is. The Israelites thought they were worshiping the true God when they bowed down to the golden calf (Ex. 32:4). The Jewish leaders of Jesus day thought they worshiped the true God, but Jesus called them children of the devil because they rejected Gods Word (John 8:44, 47). Sound biblical doctrine about God is essential to revering God properly. Hallowing Gods name also involves constantly being aware of His presence. That helps you focus on His priorities and see every aspect of your life from His perspective. Thats what David meant when he said, I have set the Lord continually before me (Ps. 16:8). Obedience is another way to hallow Gods name. Your theology might be flawless and you may be constantly aware of His presence, but if you disobey Him, you dishonor Him. Jesus said, Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven (Matt. 5:16). You are an instrument through whom God displays His holiness in the world. If His name is to be hallowed on earth as it is in heaven, it must first be hallowed in your life. That occurs when you believe in Him, understand who He really is, maintain an awareness of His presence, and obey His Word. That high calling sets you apart from every unbeliever (1 Pet. 2:9-10). Live today in light of that glorious calling! Suggestions for Prayer: Ask God to help you be aware of His presence in every circumstance you face today. Pray that your life will manifest His holiness. For Further Study: Read Exodus 32. Why did the Israelites build the golden calf? What was Moses response when God threatened to destroy His people?
Posted on: Mon, 17 Mar 2014 12:34:52 +0000
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