Holiness: The Heart God Purifies

by Nancy Leigh DeMoss, Randy Alcorn (Foreword by)

How important is holiness to you? How much thought, attention, and effort do you devote to the pursuit of holiness? Is it your priority and mission to be holy?

Nancy Leigh DeMoss teaches that we must make it our constant, conscious ambition to be holy. Just as an athlete sets his sight on winning an Olympic gold medal, so we as believers must focus on the pursuit of holiness. And the reward that awaits us brings a depth of joy that far outweighs a fading gold medal; it is the humble pleasure of hearing the Father say, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Do you long for an authentic faith? Are you eager to know your heavenly Father in a more intimate way? Read Holiness and learn how to say 'no' to corruption and 'yes' to grace.

Holiness is the third book in The Revive Our Hearts Series , which has sold well over 240,000 copies. All three include study questions at the end of each chapter, making them ideal for personal or small group study.

Genres: Christian Living, Nonfiction, Christian, Christianity, Christian Non Fiction, Faith, Theology

216 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2004

About the author

Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth also known as Nancy Leigh DeMoss is the host and teacher for Revive Our Hearts and Seeking Him, two nationally-syndicated programs heard each weekday on over 1,000 radio stations. She is a mentor and spiritual mother to thousands of women and a leader of the True Woman movement.

Reviews

[Amanda Tero · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic conclusion to a heart-searching trilogy. Nancy Leigh (DeMoss) Wolgemuth cuts to the heart of so many issues in the modern churches--but brings it down to a personal level: what about me? Am I just accepting things in my life, or will I change?

I found this to be un-legalistic in approach and application. And, like the other two books in the series, you can't come away with, "Well, she didn't cover MY issue." She leaves it very open to practical application, no matter what stage or walk of life the reader is in.

This entire series blessed me this second time reading it (or, listening to it), and I know it's one that I shall return to again.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great little book on how we should be pursuing holiness. As usual the author had much scripture throughout to back up her points. In this day many Christians are more concerned about tolerance than truth, it was a good reminder for me that God has called me to be Holy!

[Laura Robertson · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am still mulling this book over. I agreed with much that she had to say about how the church is becoming numb to sin within its midst. We don't want to hurt others feelings or appear judgmental so we let ungodly behaviors slide. And yes, the book was very convicting at times. However, I didn't care for how she singled out certain behaviors that are not sinful but are in that area of "be careful with these things because you don't want to cause others to stumble."

She clearly has issues with entertainment and drinking. She quoted in a positive light one lady that admonished her bible study group for attending rated R movies. Yes, I agree that some rated R movies are nothing but trash and do nothing for us spiritually. BUT, there are some rated R movies that tell incredible stories that should not be missed just because of the reality of the world that is portrayed. Good grief, if they made an accurate movie of the Bible, all that happens in the first half of Genesis alone would earn it an R rating. It just seemed that she was advocating the "holier-than-thou" tests that many churches thrived on (and maybe still do)...no drinking, no dancing, no movies, etc. Those restrictions just seem to lead to a self-righteousness that benefits no one and does not lead them toward holiness. As one that wants to see a better balance of extending grace and reaching for holiness in my life and in my church, this book did not bring me any closer to understanding how to strive for that balance.

I might be completely off the mark, because everyone else seems to love the book and it was well-reviewed by respected leaders in the church. But it just kind of left me unsettled. And maybe that is good.

[Vivi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heavy heart after reading this one. If you read this as a guidebook on spiritual rules, you will definitely fall off the legalistic side, but if you read it as a means to get closer to the Lord, prayerfully consider if your heart is in the right place before him, it will surely be a great treasure.
I'm not sure if I agree with everything Nancy says about different activities, she deems sinful, but my heart has definitely been called to do some intense reflection over the state of my life and my relationship with God. Very challenging, very though-provoking. You will not be able to read this book and stay the same.

[Elizabeth Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally, a modern book on holiness that rivals many of the Puritan's works on the same topic! And while it's written by a woman, it's quite relevant to ANY Christian, male or female. I found it packed with sound doctrine, convicting and pointed questions about specific areas of living, and very timely (but not trendy) application to everyday life.

Read as part of the Brokenness/Surrender/Holiness trilogy - a must-read for any Christian, and one that ought to be repeated every few years!

[Katie Martin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall, I found the book helpful. However, the second half of the book felt slightly condemning. The list of personal reflection questions were overwhelming, and I wish there had been a greater emphasis on the work of the Spirit in a believer’s life. I don’t think the writer’s intention was to condemn at all based on other books/talks I’ve heard through Revive Our Hearts, but I would not recommend this resource for anyone who struggles with legalism.

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thoughtful book about holiness. What is it? Why do we need it? Easy to read and practical in its approach. I loved her questions for reflexion and application at the end. This would be a great book for a small group study.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it! Very convicting and will definitely re -read it.

[Allison Burnett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book on God’s Holiness and how we as Christians should strive to live a Holy life to honor God in all that we say and do.

[Carla Sofía Urbina Z. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Práctico y fácil de leer 💖

[Beth Peninger]

Originally I gave this title 5 stars. I am revising my stars to zero.

The reason I am doing so is that since reading this title, several things about my faith journey and expression have changed and I no longer subscribe to evangelical ideologies.

Additionally, DeMoss is a proponent and enabler of patriarchal culture and I just can't respect that.
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Finishing out her trilogy of books on living a life of truth DeMoss closes it with Holiness. In this critical book she issues the call for holiness and unpacks it's freedoms and benefits.
Holiness is an awkward topic in the Church these days because as she says, we have traded tolerance for Truth. I will confess that reading this book on Holiness caused me a lot of unease, which is necessary unease so that I can do some honest reflection. Many church going people have the idea that holiness requires a somberness of spirit and life. While holiness is sacred and requires a somber approach it by no means that we need to live somberly - otherwise there wouldn't be the abundant life that Christ came to bring us!
Holiness provides boundaries that bring us into freedom not bondage. Holiness provides a whole host of benefits rather than a hoard of dreary duties. Because we have replaced Truth with tolerance we have an inaccurate view of holiness. It's time to return to Truth, it's time for the repenters to repent, it's time for the Church to quit trying to live a watered down version of the world and truly begin to live set apart. It is only when we, one by one, begin to choose holiness that the world will stand up and take notice.
Holiness: it's what's good for you...and me!

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the Revive our Heart Series:
If you're longing for a deeper connection to God, you must first answer His call to Holiness.
"Be Holy as I am Holy"

Nancy teaches us that holiness must be a priority in our lives! It should be our constant conscious ambition and aim to be Holy. We must learn to say "No" to corruption and "Yes" to grace. The reward that awaits us will bring us a new depth of Joy that far outweighs anything offered to us on this earth.

This book was thoroughly convicting for me. It really opened my eyes to examine myself to see the 'little' sins that had crept into my life- the little compromises I had made. It sobered me to the point of tears to see how unholy I have been.

This book could very possibly change your life and how you view the world, yourself and God.
It will most likely convict you.
And it's one that I think I should re-read often!

The little quotes, verses, and sayings make this book even better.

I'd recommend this to anyone.

[Jennah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by Nancy Leigh DeMoss! She talks about the splendor, motivation, enemy, face, heart, passion, and a pathway for holiness. Here are some questions to think about while reading this book...How important is holiness to you? How much thought, attention, and effort do you devote to the pursuit of holiness? Are you intentional about putting away everything that is displeasing to God and living a holy life? Is it your priority - your mission - to be holy?

"Lots of people are praying, and lots of people are repenting, but so few are changing their lifestyle...The fact is, if people are not changing their lifestyle, they are not repenting. And if we are not repenting, then all our singing, praising, praying, and producing are useless - perhaps worse than useless, because all the noise and activity may deceive us into thinking that we are OK and that we are actually experiencing revival."

[Laura Kindell · Rating 2 out of 5]

At last I have finished this trilogy, yet sadly I would not recommend these books to anyone - believer nor nonbeliever. If someone asks me for a book rec on brokenness, surrender, and holiness, I will point them directly to the Bible, for this is where Truth is found and is presented exactly how God intended.

Jesus never compromised what He believed, He preached only the true Gospel and dismantled false gospels, yet He knew personally the culture and the people with whom He engaged.

DeMoss quotes and references Scripture throughout this trilogy, which is purposeful and necessary, but her delivery of Truth felt dated, biased, and insensitive in some ways. I support the general themes of her 3 books but was discouraged by her dissection of these topics.

[Jaclynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nancy writes in such a captivating way and this book is sooo convicting of all those little areas that we as Christians can rationalize and let slip in our daily life.Holiness means to be set apart. Other thoughts:
God's love for us moves us to reject all lesser loves and all fleeting delights sin can offer.
I am a saint-the bride of Christ!
Not only must I choose the pathway of holiness for God's sake and for my own sake; I must also do it for the sake of others. Pratical ways to avoid sin and put off corruption lives. Filled with great quotes and thoughts, this is a nice sized read.

[Glen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A deeply moving, very practical look at the beauty of living a holy life. DeMoss is very direct in simple language and exhibits a humbleness herself that makes the words even more potent. This is a good read for devotional times.

[Susan G Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

very convicting.

[Kingsdaughter · Rating 4 out of 5]

So far I am giving it 4 stars because Nancy is one of my favorite radio speakers and she is a woman after God's own heart. She truly is a Kingsdaughter.

[Lucia M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am enjoying this book--there is so much to learn about Holiness! It is my true desire to have a "purified heart," and if that is your desire as well, this book will guide you along the path.

[Darla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love several of Nancy's books, but this one is my favorite!

[Kel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book much needed within our 'free' culture, where so many Christians have been desensitized to sin.

[Nancy Austin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good thoughts, great discussion questions, challenging content.

[Reinhard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had so much truth to it. It made me evalute many areas of my life that need to be worked on.

[Melissa Markham · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third in a series. It is not an 'easy' book to read as it is full of truths that we often ignore as Christians in today's society. It gave me a lot to think and pray about.

[Richelle Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

So convicting - my husband asked me to stop reading it aloud in the car for awhile... excellent and very biblical.

[Elena · Rating 3 out of 5]

the right book at the right time...for me it was, at least

[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holiness is a topic that has fallen on hard times. Sin is just such another. Put together when asked what does a holy God think about sin? And, one has a serious discussion that takes a Christian to the heart of their struggles and a battle they need to engage in rather than pretend it doesn't exist.

Nancy DeMoss defines Holiness and how it is an integral part of who God is, contrasts it with sin, shows how both relate to God and the Christian and then challenges the Christian to take sin seriously and see it as God sees it. It is not an easy path to holiness and eradication of sin, but essential for anyone claiming to be Christian.

The chapters are short, but thought provoking with illustrative stories from real life, easy read points and references to Scripture followed by study guide questions that are strong on application and follow up action. There is an old-style Puritanical call to battle against our sin natures and need to take sin seriously, especially the petty sins we tend to brush aside and make excuses for on a corporate and personal level.

I read this book from a new to me author as part of a women's Bible study group and it was perfect for this and at a level that women new and longtime Christians could glean from. I would definitely recommend and plan to read more from Nancy DeMoss.

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

The last book in the Revive Our Hearts series is just as challenging as the first! I had to ask myself, "How serious am I about living a life of holiness? Do I just make sure I look good on the outside because I know everyone expects that of me, or am I truly striving for holiness in all areas of my life, even those no one else knows about?" A verse from Matthew 5 have always stood out to me: "Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God." It's possible to apply this verse to eternity: only those who are pure in heart will reach heaven, etc. But to me it's always meant that only the people who keep their hearts pure before God will see God during this life. If I never see God (in a spiritual sense) during my life on earth, how can I know Him and have a real relationship with Him that will last through eternity? That's what makes holiness so important. It draws us closer to God and helps us understand Him. At the same time, we have to rely on God's strength to reach His standard of holiness. In another book I came across this idea today: When God give us the command to love, He also gives us the ability to love. The same could be said for holiness.

This book has many practical tips and illustrations that bring everything close to home.

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent short book on Holiness. I really enjoy Nancy’s writing style - I feel both encouraged and admonished by an older friend.

Two quotes I really appreciated

“We do need to guard against making absolutes out of our personal standards that are not specified in scripture or assuming others are sinning when they don’t adopt our standards on issues that may not be traps for them. Why are we so prone to defend choices that take us right to the edge of sin and so reluctant to make radical choices to protect our hearts and minds from sin?”

“No believer can withstand the assault of temptation and the encroachment of the world apart from a steady intake of the word of God. Nor can we feed on a diet of unholy reading material and entertainment and expect to have pure hearts or to grow spiritually. Mark it down: your progress in holiness will never exceed your relationship with the word of God.”

She gives 6 examples of the “means of grace” by which we grow in holiness:
- The Word of God
- Confession of Sin
- Communion
- The Body of Christ
- Church Discipline
- Suffering

Great, quick read. Highly recommend.

[Olga Rezanova · Rating 1 out of 5]

My biggest issue with this book is that instead of "teaching a man to fish" she "gives us fish" (or whatever that proverb says). This book is opinion stated as fact, and the opinion is quite outdated. While I have quite a few highlights that taught me new perspectives and gave me new reference points, I also have quite a lot of notes on the unfinished thoughts and incomplete opinions of the author.
She skims over the actual application part of holiness, making it seem that we can "lose" our holiness on a whim. She also seems to state that fear of man should be our reason to avoid sin, rather than fear of God. She makes holiness into a list of "what you're not's" rather than a state of being.
I also find issue with a lot of the examples feeling outdated and overused, but that could just be me.

Overall, I would read this one with a large grain of salt, keeping your "filter" on (another overused cliche but hey, we're here).