Righteous Work Demands Holiness – Lev. 9:1-7, 22-24

Reverend Leo H. McCrary II

The workers of the Lord must put forth the effort of holiness and not that of hypocrisy.

Today’s devotional reading: Leviticus 9:1-7, 22-24

Before he began his priestly duty, Aaron had to consecrate himself before the Lord and the people. Aaron, and his sons, were ordained by the Lord for a holy and righteous service and the people needed to know that they were holy men, representatives of the Lord.

Hypocrites and hypocrisy pose one of the greatest threats facing mankind. In Matthew 23, Jesus warned the people not to do as the scribes and Pharisees because they may have taught holy things, but they were not examples of holiness. One of the heaviest charges that God can lay against us is that we are not examples of His holiness.

As a child of God, we are to be reflections – examples – of God. You may not know this, but there is someone who is using you as an example of Christianity. To some, you could be the example they desire to follow in so that they may be the best Christian they can be. Some may see your example and use you as their wise counsel to walk in the way of God.

To others, if you aren’t living righteously, you could be the example they use to speak of Christians who say one thing but live sinfully. Sadly, there are many so-called Christians who set such a poor example that their sinful actions are not only souring the name of Christianity, but they are also pushing people away from God.

God certainly does not want one moving in His name that would push others away from His kingdom. So, be prudent in your ways and in your actions – set a good example of the Lord.