THE BENEFITS OF HOLINESS

Title: THE BENEFITS OF HOLINESS
 
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Peter 1:15-16 
Supporting Texts: Psalm 24:3-4, Hebrews 12:14, 1 Thessalonians 4:7-8

INTRODUCTION

Holiness is a divine attribute of God that He calls us to emulate as His children. To live a life of holiness is to live a life separated from sin and dedicated to God. Holiness may sound like an unattainable standard in today's world, but God equips us through His Spirit to live holy lives. It brings profound blessings and benefits that go beyond earthly rewards, touching every aspect of our spiritual, physical, and emotional well-being. In this message, we will explore the rich benefits that come from a life of holiness.

1. ACCESS TO GOD’S PRESENCE

a) Clean Hands and a Pure Heart (Psalm 24:3-4) 
Holiness grants us access to the very presence of God. Psalm 24:3-4 asks, "Who may ascend the hill of the Lord? Who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart." Without holiness, no one can see God or dwell in His presence. A life of purity opens the door for intimate communion with the Lord, where we experience His glory, power, and favour.

b) Living in God's Fellowship (1 John 1:7)
Walking in holiness allows us to walk in the light and have continual fellowship with God. When we live holy lives, we experience God's presence in a deeper and more profound way. His presence goes before us, and we become conscious of His nearness in our daily lives.

2. SPIRITUAL STRENGTH AND VICTORY

a) Victory Over Sin and Temptation (Romans 6:22)
Holiness brings power over sin. When we live in obedience to God’s Word, we are empowered to resist temptation and overcome sinful habits. Romans 6:22 says, "But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life." Holiness strengthens our spiritual armour and enables us to walk in freedom from sin.

b) Authority in Spiritual Warfare (Ephesians 6:12-14) 
Holiness also equips us for spiritual warfare. The "breastplate of righteousness" is a key part of the armour of God (Ephesians 6:14). When we live in holiness, we are covered in righteousness, which protects us from the attacks of the enemy. A life of purity gives us spiritual authority to overcome the powers of darkness.

3. DIVINE FAVOR AND BLESSINGS

a) Favour with God (Proverbs 10:9)
God’s favour follows those who live holy lives. Proverbs 10:9 says, "Whoever walks in integrity walks securely." When we live according to God's standards, His favour rests upon us, opening doors of opportunity, promotion, and divine protection. Holiness positions us to receive the blessings that God has in store for His children.

b) Attracting God's Blessings (Deuteronomy 28:1-2)
Deuteronomy 28:1-2 promises blessings for those who diligently obey the Lord. A life of holiness attracts blessings, as God delights in pouring out His goodness on those who walk uprightly. Holiness enables us to receive God's best in every area of life—spiritually, financially, relationally, and more.

4. A CLEAR CONSCIENCE AND PEACE

a) Peace of Mind (Isaiah 26:3) 
Holiness brings peace to our hearts and minds. Isaiah 26:3 declares, "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you." A clear conscience is one of the great benefits of a holy life. When we live with integrity, we don’t have to worry about the consequences of secret sin. We can walk with peace, knowing that we are pleasing God.

b) Confidence Before God (1 John 3:21-22) 
A holy life gives us confidence before God. 1 John 3:21-22 says, "If our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God and receive from Him anything we ask, because we keep His commands and do what pleases Him." When we live in holiness, we can approach God with boldness, knowing that He hears our prayers.

5. ETERNAL REWARDS

a) Eternal Life (Romans 6:22) 
Holiness leads to eternal life. Romans 6:22 tells us that the result of living a holy life is eternal life in Christ Jesus. While salvation is a free gift, the pursuit of holiness demonstrates that we are truly walking in the Spirit and prepared for the eternal kingdom of God.

b) Heavenly Rewards (2 Timothy 4:8) 
Holiness ensures that we store up treasures in heaven. 2 Timothy 4:8 promises, "Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day." Those who walk in holiness are preparing themselves for a reward in eternity that far outweighs any earthly prize.

6. WITNESS TO OTHERS**

a) A Testimony of God’s Power (Matthew 5:16)
A life of holiness is a powerful witness to the world. Jesus said in Matthew 5:16, "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." When we live holy lives, we reflect God’s character and draw others to Him. Our purity and integrity can be a light that leads others to salvation.

b) Influence and Impact (1 Peter 2:12) 
Holiness brings influence. 1 Peter 2:12 says, "Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God." When people see our lives reflecting Christ’s holiness, they are drawn to Him. Our lives of purity can transform communities and impact nations.

CONCLUSION

Holiness is not an optional extra for the believer—it is God’s will for us. A life of holiness brings access to God’s presence, spiritual strength, divine favour, peace of mind, eternal rewards, and a powerful witness to the world. As we commit ourselves to live holy lives, we position ourselves for God’s best and unlock the full benefits of His blessings.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, give me the grace to live a holy and blameless life before You. 

2. Father, help me to overcome every temptation and walk in purity. 

3. Lord, let Your favour rest upon my life as I commit to walking in holiness. 

4. Father, give me the spiritual strength to resist the enemy and stand firm in righteousness. 

5. Lord, let the peace of God fill my heart and mind as I walk in Your ways. 

6. Father, I declare that I will live in integrity and walk securely in Your blessings. 

7. Lord, grant me confidence before You, knowing that my life is pleasing in Your sight. 

8. Father, I pray that my life will be a witness to others of Your power and goodness. 

9. Lord, help me to store up treasures in heaven by living a life of holiness. 

10. Father, release Your supernatural favour and blessings upon me as I walk in righteousness.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. I declare that I will walk in holiness and purity all the days of my life. 

2. I declare that I have access to the presence of God and will dwell in His glory. 

3. I declare that I am victorious over sin and temptation by the power of the Holy Spirit. 

4. I declare that divine favour surrounds me as I walk in righteousness. 

5. I declare that I will experience perfect peace as I live a life pleasing to God. 

6. I declare that eternal rewards are being stored up for me as I live a life of holiness. 

7. I declare that my life will be a shining light, leading others to Christ. 

8. I declare that I am strong in the Lord and walk in spiritual authority. 

9. I declare that the blessing of the Lord will rest upon me and my household
10. I declare that my life of holiness will bring glory to God and influence many for His kingdom.

Holiness is a life-changing decision that opens the door to God’s abundant blessings. Let us commit to walking in holiness and experience the benefits that come from living a life set apart for God.