1) What does holiness means to you?
I believe holiness to be the ways of God. The presence of the Holy Spirit living in my spirit. As my body is the temple of God, I am subjected to His will. This presence is what helps keep me in peace with all men. I can't do that, I won't get to see Him face to face. Heb 12:14; It's constant and daily renewal of spirit, soul and mind to maintain holiness, because one can step outside of His Will. It's a
mind, set on doing His Will.
2) Are you encouraged by your church or Christian community to live a holy life?
I'm always encouraged, by my husband, my pastors, my church, my mom, Godly friends and family members. I believe encouragement comes in all forms, even rebuke and correction. It's good for spiritual development, though it hurts at times.
3) Do you know anyone in your personal life that exemplifies holiness? If yes, is it a blessing to you and others?
Yes, my mom, and an elder in our church who married us. Real Titus 2 women - givers, intercessors. When I'm in their presence, physically, there's that calmness. They know their Authority in Christ and use it. They speak with conviction and with the Power of God behind it. It helps keep me focused... I believe everyone can attain this level of Maturity in Christ. I know my identity in Christ, and there is nothing the devil in hell can do to take that away from me.
4) Do you feel as though modern day Christianity has gotten away from teaching and preaching holiness?
That's an interesting question, because my answer is NO. God's people are everywhere. I believe there are many, many more people living for God than there
appears to be, mainly because attention is going to what is wrong with the Body of Christ. What is wrong seems right, what seems right is wrong. It's a game of confusion spawned by Satan that many Children of God know about. I also believe that there are true believers in different denominations, as man created
religion. God is no respecter of persons and He is no respecter of any church. The
true Church is those who belong to God the Father, who worship Him in Spirit and in Truth. God's people are everywhere, and we know He is in control. There is no such thing as 'modern-day Christianity'.. only Christians living in modern times. People are still getting healed, delivered...miracles happen all the time -- the lame walk, they deaf hear, the blind see. Prophetic messages are coming forth, people are still dreaming visions. The devil would like many to think this is not happening now but it is..doubt and unbelief is nothing new. Happened in Jesus' time as well.
5) Do you cringe or turn away when someone speaks out on holiness? If yes, why? Honestly, I have on occasions and I have recognized this as a part of my growth in Christ and in maintaining true holiness. I have learned, whenever I got a rise out of something said that is true, I can either accept it or reject it. God has His way of getting my attention-- attestation. When I hear something more than one time, in different ways, from different sources, I know His message is for me. He speaks directly to me as well, through His Word and in prayer. If I'm in tuned, I'll hear. I'm focused on honing my inner ear to 'hear' what God says to me every time, because obedience is key. I've 'missed a word' when I realize I'm walking in disobedience and move to correct it. That's the relational part of living for God.... staying connected TO Him and not allowing fear, guilt or shame to keep me from Him. Sometimes He sends an angel, lest I dash my foot against a stone. As a matter of fact, He sent one last night to keep me from harm on the freeway and I KNOW that was God! I believe spiritual attacks and darts come at His Children daily and it's His Grace and Mercy that keeps the faithful from destruction. God is my Provider in everything, not just food, clothes and shelter. He keeps me protected from even myself..
that's how deep His love is for me. No greater Love than this and there are days I pray more people would recognize and accept His Love for what it is, than for what they want it to be. [/QUOTE]