Rest of Sanctification
Sanctification is not a struggle, but the natural outflow of Christ’s life within us."
Insights from Abide Above
Many believers struggle with the idea that sanctification is something they must work for, striving to improve themselves with God’s help. But this mindset only leads to frustration and defeat. True sanctification—our growth in holiness—is not our achievement; it is the outflow of Christ’s life within us.
A. M. reminds us that many earnest Christians begin their journey believing justification is entirely God’s work, yet they assume sanctification is their responsibility, carried out through gratitude and effort, assisted by the Holy Spirit. However, gratitude and effort quickly prove inadequate. When believers pray more, try harder, or attempt to be more dedicated, they still find themselves falling short. Only when they come to the end of striving do they finally recognize the truth: Christ Himself is our sanctification. We partake of His holiness not by laboring for it, but by resting in Him and allowing His life to be expressed through us.
This is why Peter declares that His divine power has given us everything pertaining to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). We are not called to manufacture holiness but to abide in Christ, our Sanctification (1 Corinthians 1:30). Instead of seeing holiness as an exhausting effort, we should recognize it as the natural outgrowth of our union with Him. Faith does not strive—it simply rests in the reality that all we need for godly living has already been provided.
Personal Journal Reflection
Father, what peace it brings to know that I do not have to produce holiness on my own. The years I spent attempting to refine myself, straining to be more spiritual, left me weary and discouraged. But You have shown me something better—something truer. Holiness is not something I achieve; it is the life of Christ being expressed through me.
What a relief to let go of the striving! I don’t need to beg for what is already mine in Christ. I have been given everything I need for life and godliness. Right now, in this moment, I lack nothing. My sanctification is not a future hope dependent on my performance—it is a present reality in Jesus.
As I yield to You, I trust that Your life in me will naturally produce the fruit of righteousness. The struggle is not mine; it was finished at the Cross. You are my holiness. You are my victory. You are the One who lives in and through me, making real the righteousness You have already supplied. Thank You for making the Christian life one of rest, not relentless effort.
Prayer of Confident Trust
Father, I thank You that I am not called to sanctify myself. You have already made me holy in Christ, and I rest in that truth. I trust that as I abide in Him, His holiness will be seen in me effortlessly, just as a branch naturally bears fruit when connected to the vine. Thank You for making my sanctification as secure as my salvation. I rejoice that my life is not one of striving, but of resting in Your perfect provision. Amen.
Photo Intent:
A quiet, sunlit path leading into a peaceful forest—symbolizing the restful journey of abiding in Christ rather than striving.