“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.” – Philippians 1:9-11
In Matthew’s account of John the Baptist, he calls people to live out their piety and “produce fruit in keeping with repentance.” Obedience to God is a vital part of devotion and piety. Living out faith is demonstrated by our actions—the visible fruit of repentance.
The story of Adam and Eve vividly illustrates how sin severed their connection with God in Eden. It underscores the importance of obedience as the key to pious living. Adoration, in turn, serves as the bridge to obedience. And obedience, ultimately, is the life that brings honor to God.
Remember, God cannot dwell where sin resides. That’s why Jesus paid the penalty of sin on the cross out of His immense love. By living a holy life, we bring pleasure to God. And in return, receive His blessings and favor.
Living out your faith is borne out through purity in heart, mind, and body. Our behavior, words, and actions reveal love for Jesus as fruits of righteousness. Living a pious life is being dedicated to God’s will and pleasure.
As Dale Carnegie said, “Pay less attention to what men say. Just watch what they do.”
Christ’s return motivates uprightness and devotion. “When Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure” (1 John 3:2-3). Through living a pious life, Jesus is reflected. Consistent prayer, meditation in God’s Word, humbly serving others to share the love of Jesus, and choosing fellowship with like-minded believers will bolster a faithful, devoted, pious life that honors God.
As Blaise Pascal said, “The serene, silent beauty of a holy life is the most powerful influence in the world, next to the might of God.”
