“Because of the Lord, who is faithful, the holy one of Israel, who chose you.” Isaiah 49:7b
Almost fifteen years ago I made a discovery: I married a very particular man. My dear husband was seemingly always informing me of a better way to do something or how I might change what I am doing to get better results. One tired evening he imparted his great wisdom yet again, and frustrated, I almost burst into tears, saying “You are just too particular!”
Now, my husband is a very wise man. He quietly stood there a moment, digesting what all had just transpired. The he looked lovingly into my eyes and said “Yes, I am very particular, and I chose you!”
(How can one possibly argue with that!?!)
Isaiah 49:7 tells us all we need to know: God chose us! Couple that with John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life”, and you realize, yes, God loves the world. But, let’s put names and faces on the world, because God makes it that personal! He chose you!
He chose to create you, with your tasks and talents, with your faults and frailties. He chose YOU above being rescued from the cross. He chose a criminal’s death over the risk of losing YOU forever. He chose YOU!
This realization ought to give each of us pause. We are significant, in the most significant way! Each of our lives is invaluable. At times, we may not appreciate that fact, but it is a fact of which God never loses sight. Our enemy loves to make us feel insignificant. He wants us to believe our lives are of no value.
Do not believe it! God chose YOU!
Reflection questions
1) Think about the fact: God chose You. How should some of your thinking patterns change?
2) Identify ways of correcting you thinking about yourself, your gifts, your stage of life. Implement!
3) Thank God for chosing you, in word and in deed, today.
4) Identify a period when you felt insignificant, unsuccessful, and unneeded. How did you recognize, or should you have recognized your true value?
5) Are you prepared to ‘set others straight’ when trials or failures deceive someone about his self-worth, (or perceived lack thereof)?
Thank you for you encouragement and for reading! I love to hear from you! Please return next Monday, June 18 for the next post!