Many Christians get very intimidated by the word "holiness." Its very connotation seems old-fashioned and abstract. What exactly is holiness? How do I become holy? How do I walk in holiness?

For most nonbelievers, their concept of holiness is one that is very solemn and somber. To live a holy life is to live a life that is dark and gloomy; a life devoid of color, fun and excitement. Unfortunately, that is also the idea many Christians have whenever they think about being holy. But nothing can be further from the truth.

We worship God in the beauty of His holiness (1 Chron. 16:29). That means holiness is something attractive and beautiful. No wonder people followed Jesus everywhere He went. Even little children wanted to come near to hug Him. Holiness makes a believer a very attractive witness for Christ. The Bible says that God is glorious in holiness (Ex. 15:11). Holiness carries with it the glory of the Lord. "Glory" means two things:

(1) Light. A holy person is never dull or gloomy. On the contrary, he stands our head and shoulders over everyone else. The Christian who is holy is a bright and radiant person, shining powerfully for Jesus.

(2) Weight. In the Hebrew language, the word "glory" is kabod, which means weight or substance. The Christian who is holy is a person who carries the tangible presence of the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit comes with a very substantial presence. When a holy person walks into a room, the anointing of God goes into that room with him. When a holy person speaks, his words carry weight and authority.

When Jesus spoke, everybody listened: "Then they were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, saying, "What is this? What new doctrine is this? For with authority He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him"" (Mark 1:27).

Deuteronomy 23:14 says we have to make a decision to keep our camp--the house of God--spiritually clean. God only walks on holy ground. Our words, actions and thoughts have to be sanctified because we can build an environment where God enjoys coming into. And when God walks among us, there will always be blessing, provision and protection.

Make a decision today to be walking in holiness. Do not entertain any more unclean ideas, conversations or deeds that would grieve the Holy Spirit. God says, "Be holy, for I am holy" (1 Pet. 1:16).