You Were Picked
Let these rich words by Dr. Michael Horton, Professor of Systematic Theology and Apologetics at Westminster Seminary, sink into your mind, “A church is not a group of friends you’ve picked. It is a group of brothers and sisters God has picked for you.”
Have you ever thought about this truth? Take a moment and let it sink into your mind.
Now let’s think about some of the implications:
You and I should feel a sense of eternal gratitude for God’s lavish grace that included us in His forever family (“chosen by God,” 1 Peter 1:1). You are NOT included by accident.
You and I should feel a sense of loyal commitment to our brothers and sisters in Christ by loving, serving, and caring for them (Colossians 3:12-18). You are NOT unneeded.
You and I should feel a sense of full empowerment knowing God has blessed us with every resource needed to live for Him and others (2 Peter 1:3). You are NOT under-resourced.
You and I should feel a sense of privilege and responsibility in being on mission together to share the greatest message ever known (the gospel) with others whom God has picked to be our brothers and sisters (Colossians 1:29-30). You are NOT without real influence.
Knowing just a few of these rich blessings elevates our sense of appreciation and attention in order to give our Lord what will most honor Him and His special family.
Next time you see one of your brothers or sisters who God picked for you, think about how you can be a blessing to them (e.g., prayer, encouragement, service, love, etc.)
Never forget the vital and important role you play as one of God’s selected teammates on His unbeatable team.
And let’s remember, if it had been left up to you and me, we would have made the wrong choice and ended up on the losing team. What a blessing of undeserved grace we have experienced.
Pastor Jeff