But like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves in all your conduct [be set apart from the world by your godly character and moral courage]
Dear Ones: Moral Courage! Moral courage is the courage to take action for moral reasons despite the risk of adverse consequences (as per Wikipedia). But what moral standard is Peter talking about? It is the holiness of a Holy God. Can this be right? Did God actually call us to be holy?
Leviticus 11:44, NKJV, confirms Peters admonition. “For I am the Lord your God. You shall therefore consecrate yourselves, and you shall be holy; for I am holy.” During Old Testament times the people had the Law of Moses to train them in the ways of God. However, New Testament believers have the advantage of the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit and the Divine Nature of Christ to train us in Christlikeness.
Good Courage
We do not have to do this on our own because the Lord said He would never leave us nor forsake up. Even in Old Testament times, the people of God were given the same promise in Deuteronomy 31:6, NKJV. “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”
Moral Courage is greatly needed today as you face the challenges of this fallen world culture. You cannot go along with the “crowd” that is being led by the ever changes morals of society. Choose to believe that your Holy God will enable you to grow into spiritual maturity and strengthen you to stand when the pressure of compromise comes against you. You are an overcomer because the Overcomer lives in you. I bless you in Jesus’ name.