July 5: Living Holy in a Busy World

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by: Dr. Alicia Valasse-Polius 

Odsan SDA Church, St. Lucia  

“But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all  manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I  am holy” (1 Peter 1:15-16) 

Dearest Reader,  

In the “hustle and bustle” era, the life of the working  professional is defined by strategy workshops in Zone A, proposal presentations in Zone B, board meetings in Zone  C, consultant briefings in Zone D, virtual training sessions,  team check-ins and the occasional face-to-face interaction  to foster serendipitous partnerships. In the midst of this  maze, the occasional date night slips in and weekend  afternoon naps are forced. Hey…it’s a busy world with  distractions here and there. Without prioritising, even  Christians can be caught up in the aura of busyness,  trading obedience to God for convenience. But the Word of  God encourages living holy in the hustle of today. This requires shifting our focus from worldly conformity to  divine intention.  

1 Peter 1:15 is a call to be “holy” or “set apart” for God’s  purposes. Translated from the Ancient Greek word 

“hagios”, this idea of “set apartness” suggests being  “distinct” from what is common. It does not denote separation from unbelievers but it calls believers to live  differently from the worldly patterns while being in the  physical world (1 Peter 2:9). "Set apart" does not imply withdrawing from society, but maintaining moral courage  and godly character while navigating the relentless demands of the busy world. “Set apart” is not about  isolation. It is about distinction, being the light in the midst  of the dark (Matthew 5:14-16). “Set apart” behaviour  means acting with integrity in all circumstances. It  indicates displaying tolerance during instances of  provocation. It means responding with grace in stressful  situations.  

These verses also call for Christians to be “holy in all  manner of conversation”. The etymology of the word  “conversation” reveals evolution in its meaning. If one  examines the phrase “all manner of conversation” with 21st Century eyes, the Modern English definition would be a  “verbal exchange” between two or more people.  But this text was not written in the 21st Century. The 14th Century English definition for the word “conversation”  suggests “behaviour” or “conduct in social situations”. This 

is not an imperative to simply “watch your mouth”. It refers  to manner of living, including physical mingling with  others. It is a broader directive to be conscious of our  lifestyle, habits and daily conduct, ensuring consistency  with our faith.  

And why should the Christian exemplify such behaviour?  Because God is holiness (Isaiah 6:3; 1 Samuel 2:2). He is  the standard for holiness and children of the Living God  are expected to imitate the moral character of their Father (Leviticus 11:44). Imitation of His character demands  extending grace and compassion to others and embracing  action-oriented love. This is “set apartness” in a busy  world.  

So, here are some practical ways to remain “set apart” in a  busy world:  

1. Have micro-moments of prayer. Speak to God during  your commute, before your board meeting or while  hanging your clothes.  

2. Listen to the audio bible or audio devotional while  walking, editing that proposal, reviewing that book or  having lunch.  

3. Allow your daily reactions to be led by Christ “for we  wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against 

principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the  darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in  high places” (Ephesians 6:12).  

4. Learn to say “No”. Create breathing room in your  schedule. Setting healthy boundaries protects you  from burnout. Every time you overcommit, you are  inherently giving less time to health, family and God.  

5. Technology can be your friend if you know how to  wield it. Shape digital habits rather than being shaped  by them. Here’s an idea: synchronize Bible apps with  your smartwatch for periodical bible verses. In that  way, the Bible goes with you everywhere.  

6. Lastly, God is holy and rest is holy. Respect the  Sabbath. Rest in God.


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