This text makes clear that Jesus has an ongoing commitment to our growth in holiness. In John 17:17, He prays for us with the words, “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” Our Lord is not only committed to us, but is interceding on our behalf. Our purification from sin and our strength for ongoing holiness comes only from His hand, but a large part of the responsibility for seeing our lives made pure rests squarely on our shoulders.
The psalmist asks the question, “How can a young man cleanse his way?” Then immediately answers, “By taking heed according to Your word” (119:9). The Word, therefore, becomes the key to seeing that constant cleansing take place.
Where does cleansing need to take place in our lives today? As we rest in Jesus and on the Word, let us echo the commitment of 2 Corinthians 7:1, “Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.”
