“For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction…” – 1 Thessalonians 1:4,5 

Scripture reading: Romans 9:1-29

Election and predestination are woven throughout the Bible. Yet their teaching angers many people causing them to charge God with unfairness. But who are we to charge God – the Potter – with His decisions? (19-21).

The question isn’t, “Why didn’t God choose to save everyone?” but “Why did God choose to save anyone?” And the question can be turned around: “Is it fair that you and I should be saved, since we are sinners deserving eternal damnation for our sins?” But we understand that it is not a question of fairness. That we are lavished with the love of our triune God reveals God’s awesome and astonishing grace! (Romans 9:22-24; Ephesians 2:8-10).

When we think of election, we often think of it only in regard to our salvation. But we are God’s chosen people not only for salvation, but for service. As Jesus said in John 15:16, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit…” God chose us not only to save us from our sin, but to sanctify us for good works, which also, with the Holy Spirit’s indwelling (Romans 8:16), gives us certainty about our calling and election. (You can read about that in the context of 1 Thessalonians 1:4-10, 2 Peter 1:3-11, and other Scriptures).

Many people stumble over the teaching of election and predestination, but praise God that through His eternal decree we experience the fullness of His love and grace through no merit of our own!

Suggestions for prayer

Thank God that He has graciously predestined us to live to the praise of His glorious grace (Ephesians 1:11, 12). Pray that your life would produce much fruit and reflect deep and sincere gratitude for His unmerited favor.

Pastor Ted Gray is an emeritus minister of First United Reformed Church in Oak Lawn, Illinois. Before serving in Oak Lawn, Pastor Gray served Orthodox Presbyterian churches in Oregon and Florida, and Christian Reformed churches in Vermont and Illinois. He and his wife, Karen, reside in Crown Point, Indiana. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.