In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who work all things according to the counsel of his will, Ephesians 1:11
The believer’s inheritance consists of the promise of eternal life with God and all the spiritual blessings the heavenly father supplies until then. Predestination means to decide beforehand and applies to God’s purposes. God’s purpose is to offer salvation to every person. He is sovereign, He is in charge.
When life seems chaotic, rest in this truth: Jesus is Lord, and God is in control. Paul is not claiming that people have no self – determining the free will. As Romans 9 indicates, God is able to use even sinful humans choices for His purposes. The point here is that whatever God does for those in Christ, He does according to a carefully orchestrated plan for their benefit.
Let’s look at the word predestination. There is a question amongst humans about predestination. It is whether God has determined ahead of time who will be saved and spend eternity with him and who will be condemned from His presence forever. God is omniscient. He already knows everything. God is actively involved with people and the world. The Bible is also clear on the fact that humans get to choose if they want to follow him or not. That choice is what determines if we will go to heaven or to hell.
Just because God knows the outcome, does not mean that He has caused the outcome. God gave us free will. This means we get to decide and choose, then that also means that we are responsible for our choices and the consequences of that choice.
Have you made a decision about following God?
What are your thoughts about predestination?
What about your free will and your responsibilities towards God?
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for giving us free will. Thank you that we get to decide who we are going to worship. I pray that we humans will choose you. I pray that we will rest in your truth. I pray that we will see and hear the truth of your Word.
In Jesus Name
Amen
