A Verse
Ephesians 1:5
In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will
A Comment
We, who were by nature, children of wrath as we will see in more detail in Ephesians 2, we were chosen, predestined, that is, pre-determined to adoption to Himself, as sons entitled to the full blessings and rights of a child of God. We who were once “not a people,” as Peter would say in 1 Peter 2, have become God’s people. We who were once not near to God have been brought near to Him in Christ, as we will see in chapter 2.
So, as you see from these few verses, God’s choice is not about excluding people from His mercy, but in fact, the exact opposite. It is about including people who once were alienated from His mercy because of their sin and rebellion against Him. His choice is about appointing people for the pursuit of holiness and conformity to Christ. It’s about the spiritual orphan finding a home in Christ.
A Prayer
O’ Jesus, thank you for saving us. Thank you for your mercy and grace that sought us out in our rebellion. Apart from You, we would never be saved. But we are, and that is because of You. We bless you, O’ Lord. In Your name, Amen.
A Blessing
Now the Savior, who died and rose and who reigns,
grant you joy in the midst of labor,
peace in the midst of troubles,
hope in the midst of despair,
and faithfulness in the midst of temptation. Amen.
From Grace Be with You: Benedictions from Dale Ralph Davis
Chosen for Adoption