Genesis 2:3 And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.

Much can be learned in the issues of first use. Here God has sanctified the seventh day, the Sabbath. It is to be noted that God alone did this, man had not been created at this point. It is a blessing and a declaration based on God’s character and will. In this lesson of God sanctifies we shall look at things from a standpoint of character and will regardless of man’s actions, awareness or obedience of faith.

Sanctified is a thing or person whom God has declared sacred and set apart.

Exodus 29:44 And I will sanctify the tabernacle of the congregation, and the altar: I will sanctify also both Aaron and his sons, to minister to me in the priest’s office.

Leviticus 20:8 And ye shall keep my statutes, and do them: I am the Lord which sanctify you.

There is purpose behind God’s declaration.

Leviticus 21:15 Neither shall he profane his seed among his people: for I the Lord do sanctify him.

Leviticus 21:23 Only he shall not go in unto the vail, nor come nigh unto the altar, because he hath a blemish; that he profane not my sanctuaries: for I the Lord do sanctify them.

God prescribes acceptable behavior towards that which He sanctifies. Respect is expected.