To be sanctified is to be made holy or set apart for God’s purposes and glory. The name Jehovah Mekoddishkem is a name that God declares of Himself, making clear that it is His work to sanctify.
You are to speak to the people of Israel and say, “Above all you shall keep My Sabbaths, for this is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations, that you may know that I, the LORD, sanctify you.” Exodus 31:13
The name occurs twice, both times used by God of Himself. While making it clear this is His work, both contexts also include a call to obedience.
Keep My decrees and follow them. I am the Lord, who sanctifies you. Leviticus 20:8
Even in the New Testament, Jesus affirms God’s role in sanctification.
Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. John 17:17
It is God that makes us holy. He is the One who sets us apart, who uses us for His good work. But we are called to cooperate in that. We are sanctified (positional) and are becoming sanctified (process). We grow in knowledge of His Word and we walk obediently. This exemplifies someone who is sanctified … and is being sanctified. We are and are becoming.
Lord, I am grateful that You have called me holy, set apart. May I always strive towards that which You have already declared true. You are Jehovah Mekoddishkem, the Lord who sanctifies me.
