One of the books most often cited on the “top ten” lists of many, many Christians (myself included), is the classic work, HOLINESS by J C Ryle.

[Ryle is one of my favorite authors, particularly for his sweet and simple commentaries on the four Gospels; I’m so thankful that an old friend, Brent Nelson, pointed me to Ryle some 20+ years ago]

In chapter three you’ll find several points on the nature of practical holiness. Here is a short list of points (with some texts added) which I compiled for last Wednesday’s prayer meeting at CPCC:

Holiness is the habit of being of one mind with God. 
– 1st Peter 1:14-15

A holy man will endeavor to shun every known sin, and to keep every known commandment. 
 — Psalm 119:127-128

A holy man will strive to be like our Lord Jesus Christ. 
– Romans 8:29; 1 John 2:6

A holy man will govern his emotions and his tongue.
 — Galatians 5:22-24

A holy man will pursue temperance and self-denial.
 — 1 Corinthians 9:27

A holy man will manifest charity and brotherly kindness. 
– Colossians 3:12-13; 1 Peter 1:22

A holy man will show a spirit of mercy and active benevolence. 
– Acts 9:36; 2 Corinthians 12:15

A holy man will follow after purity of heart.
 — Proverbs 4:23

A holy man will follow after the fear of God.
 — 2 Corinthians 7:1

A holy man will follow after humility. 
– 1st Peter 5:5

A holy man will faithfully perform all his duties.
 — Colossians 3:23

A holy man will follow after spiritual-mindedness.
 — 1st Peter 1:13; Philippians 2:5; Colossians 3:2

As he writes, Ryle reminds us in Hebrews 12:14 that there is a “…holiness without which no one will see the Lord.” This should move us to pray, and to pursue greater holiness…
— pdb