The Only “Holy” (The-Only series: 12 of 14)

Returning to the God Who Alone Is Worthy of Praise

“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of His glory.”
— Isaiah 6:3 (NIV)

We use the word “holy” often—but sometimes casually. A song is “holy.” A place feels “holy.” A moment seems “holy.” But true holiness is far more than sacred sentiment or emotional resonance.

Holiness means set apart. It means utterly other.
It means perfection in purity, majesty, and glory. Sacredness.

And there is only One who is holy in essence. Not just in behavior or title, but in nature.
God isn’t mostly holy—He is the Only Holy.
All others derive holiness from Him. He alone possesses it infinitely and eternally.

Devotional Insight

Isaiah’s vision of God’s throne room in Isaiah 6 is overwhelming in beauty and weight. Seraphim cry out, not once—but three times: Holy, holy, holy. In Hebrew repetition, this triples the emphasis. There’s no other attribute of God described like this in Scripture.

God is love. God is just. God is powerful.
But only His holiness is exalted in triplicate—because it encompasses all His attributes.

Holiness means His love is pure.
His justice is perfect.
His power is undefiled.
His motives are untainted.

When Isaiah encountered the holiness of God, he didn’t feel inspired—he felt undone. That’s what real holiness does. It confronts our impurity not to condemn us, but to cleanse us.

And that’s the beauty of the Gospel: the Only Holy One invites us—through Jesus the Messiah—to be made blameless. Not by effort, but by grace.

Reflection Question

When was the last time you sat in awe of God’s holiness?
Have you become casual with what is meant to be sacred?

Prayer Prompt

O’ Holy God, You are unlike any other. Perfect in power, justice, compassion, graciousness, mercy, and glory. I bow in humble reverence before You—not in fear, but in awe. Cleanse me, purify me, set me apart for Your purposes. Let my life reflect Your holiness in humility, obedience, and surrender. Amen.

Song Connection: “O’ Holy God”
by Blessing Others