Some people really like road trips. I could take them either way. But one major improvement that I’ve lived with most of my life is a wonderful piece of technology called a GPS. There’s nothing like having an eye in the sky to help you navigate your trip.
Those who are on the journey to becoming holy like Jesus have a similar weapon. The Bible outlines God’s very best expectations for our lives. As we study its pages and are led by the Holy Spirit we travel a path many Christians have traveled with the same Helper.
The worst thing we could do is misunderstand the path to holiness. Some Christians believe that there is a destination, a point of arrival. Once they get there, there’s nothing left to do. Others never start the Johnny because I don’t think they can ever get there.
The path to holiness is often untried. But there are people who have gone before us that are a great help. No one is more helpful than the Holy Spirit. He is not only our guide but our friend along the journey. No one wants to travel alone.
Holiness is not a journey like others. It does have a destination but while we are on the journey it never ends. Holiness is not a straight line journey. It’s a circular journey. Just when you think you’ve mastered one character trait, something comes along to test it and find it weaker than you thought.
But don’t let that set you back. And please don’t leave the path altogether. If you think it’s about mastering every characteristic one by one, you’ve missed the point. Holiness will continue to refine every edge of our person until we go home to be with Jesus.
The journey is the main thing. Sure, the destination will be wonderful. But God is more interested in the journey you take from the moment he declares the righteous to the day he takes a righteous child home.
Holiness is a lifestyle. It is something you become and practice. Jesus declared each of us holy the moment we were saved. But while we live on this earth he uses the time to work on our character and actions.
The Bible often describes the journey as walking with Jesus. This makes complete sense as he walks alongside of us. The Holy Spirit lives life with us. And the journey only ends one we have reached our final destination.
Don’t be afraid to walk the journey. Don’t get caught up in every step. Just put one foot in front of the other and follow the Spirit’s leading. He is the best teacher and knows exactly what you as the finished product will look like.
Every once in a while you may stumble on the journey. But as long as you don’t turn to the right or the left, you will reach the goal. It’s not always an easy journey. Learning to listen to the Holy Spirit takes time. He speaks in different ways to different people.
But when he speaks you will know. Don’t listen to everybody else who is also on the journey. Unlike God, they cannot see the entire process from start to finish for you. Sometimes it is helpful to compare notes with others on the road, but the Holy Spirit should have the final say in your journey.
What do you think about the idea of holiness as a journey? Leave a comment and tell me what you think about the destination versus the journey.
