Sanctification is the result of God’s grace in a believer’s life. Upon becoming a believer, we are dedicated to God. Sanctification is a continual process carried out by the Holy Spirit within believers. The Holy Spirit persistently works to transform us internally to resemble Christ more closely. Abandonment of sin and the cultivation of grace is fundamental to the Christian journey.

You have likely faced numerous highs and lows throughout your faith. These fluctuations are part of the sanctification process. We will not achieve a sinless existence during our time on earth. Sin causes us to have many discouragements in life. Some believe that becoming a Christian means sin will no longer be a problem for them. However, sanctification is not an instantaneous event; it is an ongoing journey that lasts a lifetime. The individual undergoing sanctification by the Holy Spirit progressively turns away from sin.

Philippians 2:12-13 states, “So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.”

Sanctification is a continuous development. The growth can often be inconsistent, yet the overall direction leads to reduced sin and increased holiness. Romans 12:2 encourages us to be renewed in our minds. The instruction to not conform to this world suggests that we should resist allowing worldly influences to shape us into ungodliness and immorality. Do you aspire to grow in grace? Are you engaging in the struggle against sin? Is sanctification a focus of your prayers?