Taking Time to Be Holy
A Call to Set Apart How We Live
Holiness is a central theme throughout Scripture, and God’s people are continually called to be set apart for Him. The book of Leviticus lays out specific instructions on how Israel was to live holy lives, distinct from the nations around them. This theme of holiness is echoed in the hymn Take Time to Be Holy, which reminds us that holiness is not an instantaneous transformation but a lifelong pursuit of God. As we reflect on these biblical principles, we see that holiness is both a calling and a process requiring dedication, obedience, and a deep relationship with God.
God’s Call to Holiness in Leviticus
Leviticus 11:44-45 (NKJV) states:
“For I am the Lord your God. You shall therefore consecrate yourselves, and you shall be holy; for I am holy… For I am the Lord who brings you up out of the land of Egypt, to be your God. You shall therefore be holy, for I am holy.”
Here, God commands Israel to be holy because He is holy. The holiness of God is perfect, and His people are to reflect His character. The laws given in Leviticus—including instructions on sacrifices, dietary restrictions, and moral living—were meant to cultivate purity in their relationship with Him.
Similarly, Take Time to Be Holy echoes this principle by emphasizing separation from worldly distractions and drawing nearer to God:
“Take time to be holy, speak oft with thy Lord; Abide in Him always, and feed on His Word.”
This verse aligns with Leviticus’ instructions to dedicate time and effort toward holiness. Being holy is not passive; it requires intentional effort, prayer, and immersion in God’s Word.
Holiness Through Obedience
Leviticus repeatedly shows that holiness requires obedience. God did not merely suggest holiness—He commanded it. Jesus reaffirmed this in John 14:15 (NKJV):
“If you love Me, keep My commandments.”
Obedience to God’s Word is a demonstration of our love for Him and our commitment to holiness. The hymn continues:
“Make friends of God’s children, help those who are weak, Forgetting in nothing His blessing to seek.”
Holiness is also evident in our relationships. The book of Leviticus contains many instructions on how to treat others with justice and mercy (Leviticus 19:18), reinforcing that holiness is not just personal but relational—it impacts how we interact with others.
Holiness Requires Separation from the World
Leviticus 20:26 (NKJV) reinforces the call to distinction:
“And you shall be holy to Me, for I the Lord am holy, and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be Mine.”
Christians today are still called to this separation—not physical isolation, but a distinct way of living. Romans 12:2 (NKJV) emphasizes:
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
Likewise, Take Time to Be Holy reminds us to turn away from worldly influences:
“Take time to be holy, the world rushes on; Spend much time in secret with Jesus alone.”
Holiness involves prioritizing time with God over the fleeting distractions of the world.
Holiness Is a Lifelong Journey
Unlike instant perfection, holiness is a process. Hebrews 12:14 (NKJV) instructs:
“Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.”
Holiness is something we actively pursue throughout our lives. As we seek to grow in Christ, we must dedicate time to prayer, Bible study, and service—just as the hymn encourages:
“By looking to Jesus, like Him thou shalt be; Thy friends in thy conduct His likeness shall see.”
The more we spend time with Christ, the more we reflect His holiness.
Living Distinctly for God
Holiness is not an abstract concept—it is a call to live distinctly for God. The book of Leviticus provides clear instructions on how God’s people were to be set apart, and the principles found there still apply to Christians today. Take Time to Be Holy reminds us that holiness is cultivated through prayer, obedience, and seeking God above all else.
As 1 Peter 1:15-16 (NKJV) reminds us:
“But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, ‘Be holy, for I am holy.’”
May we take the time to be holy, dedicating our lives to the Lord and striving daily to be more like Him.