Sometimes we might hesitate in our desire to be holy. We might think it’s too hard or that it requires too much sacrifice. And all of that is true.

If we take it fully upon ourselves to be holy, we’ll never make it. Instead, we need to lean upon the Lord. We need to rest in him and his ways. Yes, the process of purification can be challenging, even painful sometimes. We might compare it to hard exercise to get in shape. Or it might be like healing from an illness. But it’s worth it. Because when you follow a path of purification, then you end up stronger and healthier.

Perhaps the greatest reward to holiness is freedom. But it’s not the freedom to do anything you want to do. It’s not a lack of control. Instead, it’s freedom from pride and arrogance. It’s freedom from sin. Sanctification is true spiritual freedom that lets your soul soar free.

So be not afraid to seek holiness. It’s the same as seeking God and receiving his everlasting goodness.

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Create in me a clean heart, O God,
    and put a new and right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from thy presence,
    and take not thy holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of thy salvation,
    and uphold me with a willing spirit.

Psalm 51:10-12

Prayer for sanctification

O holy Lord,

My life hasn’t been easy. I’ve been hurt, and I’ve hurt others too.

Sometimes I’m so ashamed. Or I act like an arrogant fool.

Stains and scars were written on my history and humanity.

So, I ask you, O Lord, Purge me. Cleanse me.

Purify my heart and soul.

May the fire of your Holy Spirit burn away all the things that tie me down and tell me lies.

Let me return to that place, the beginning. A place of innocence and trust.

Let me go again to where everything is fresh and new.

I know I must trust in your plan and your process. I must do my part.

So, I will give up any hurt to the blessed cross of Christ.

Make me holy, Lord, sanctify me.

Then I can be useful to you, as you wish and as you will.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.