The goal of sanctification is Christlikeness, which is the restoration of the divine image. The process of sanctification is the pursuit of the divine likeness; it is what we run toward. The way is surrender, obedience, and repentance. This has to be all carried out in the context of full identification with Christ. Christ is our holy way; there is no holiness apart from that relationship. Sanctifying repentance is more than turning away from our former way of life; it is more than rejecting bad behavior. It aspires for communion with the Lord, walking away from all things that hinder. It turns from the good to the best; the best is to be like Jesus.
“Therefore, strengthen the hands that are weak and the knees that are feeble, and make straight paths for your feet, so that the limb which is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather be healed. Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:12-14 NASB)
{From “Sonlight for the Soul”, by H. Lamar Smith)
