The answer is: Despising God

1 Thessalonians 4:7 - God calls believers to a life set apart for His glory. Ignoring this call is not merely neglecting advice; it is an act of contempt towards God Himself. The seriousness of holiness echoes elsewhere, like in Hebrews 12:14, where striving for peace and holiness is essential for seeing the Lord.

When we take a look at 1 Thessalonians 4:7, it quickly becomes clear that living a holy life isn't just a suggestion; it's a calling. This divine invitation is not about following a bureaucratic checklist; it’s a deep, relationship-oriented guideline that points to our connection with the Creator. Ignoring such a calling isn't a light matter—it signifies a disregard for the sacred. By choosing paths contrary to this divine instruction, individuals show a troubling indifference, even giving off the impression that they are rejecting what God values.

Let’s talk appeals! Throughout scripture, we see echoes of this theme stressing that our lives reflect the immense bond we share with God. Think about how Isaiah wrote that God's ways are not our ways, drawing attention to the wisdom we often overlook. 1 Peter 1:16 reiterates this call to holiness, reminding us to be holy because God is holy—breaking down barriers between the normal and the divine.

History shows that societies thrive on shared ethics and morals, and this directive serves a tactile purpose beyond religious boundaries: cultivating goodwill and mutual respect in fellowship. The call to holiness is full of potential, extending far beyond personal spirituality to influence societies infused with integrity and compassion. Next time we ponder holiness, let's do it with the vibrancy of grace, acknowledging that it's lily pads on our grand journey towards mutual reverence and understanding.