Be like the Lord

Leviticus 19:2

What does it mean to be like the Lord? First, this scripture setting took place during the leadership of Moses and God called the nation of Israel to separate themselves from their surrounding nations. God reminds Israel who they were and who He is and that He was their God who is holy. Second, the entire chapter of Leviticus 19 deals with the personal conduct of believers, which is to manifest the character of a holy God, who is holy by His divine nature and if we as believers are to manifest His likeness, then we are to be like Him. Why? Because mankind was created in the image and likeness of God, therefore, believers are called to separate themselves from the world just as Israel was called to separation from their surrounding nations.

This brings a question to mind, which is why do God call believers and the nation of Israel to separation? First, God is a holy God and all humanity has a part of God within each of us “love” and with this love believers are to love Him first, then “our neighbor as thyself”. Second, believers are set aside (sanctified) unto His righteousness for a purpose, which is to show the world His goodness, love, mercy and have a fellowship with Him. In order to accomplish sanctification, it requires the work of both God and the believer. One, the believer must have faith in God and His Son’s atoning work at Calvary. Two, the believer must humble himself and participate in the Spirit’s sanctifying work by ceasing to do evil. Three, sanctification can be looked upon as a purifying process which keeps believers from becoming polluted by this world’s evils.

Third, believers and the nation of Israel are to be sanctified (set aside) to show the world the attributes of a holy God.

Finally, to be like the Lord requires a spiritual separation from worldliness for the following reasons:
1. Draw near to God, and turn away from everything that is contrary to Him and His Son. This is accomplished through prayer, worship, and His Word and loving service to Him.
2. To prevent an unholy comprise for believers.
3. To show our attitudes toward sin and all unrighteousness of a corrupt world and its systems.
4. Separation enables the believer to persevere in faith, purity, and godly love for one another.
5. Be light in a sin darkened world.
As the Lord is light so are believers manifesting His light.

Author’s contact Email: white3285@sbcglobal.net, blog http:/willie-writing.blogspot.com, website www.goodshepherdwritingandpublishing.com. comment welcome.