Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes (Eph. 1:4).
We were chosen by God to be holy. That is our position before God. That position involves behavioural changes in us for we are called on to work at being holy.
Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord (Heb. 12:14).
Over the past few weeks I have been interviewing staff for different roles. Those who I choose will be given a contract. That will be their position but in that contract will be a list of dos and don’ts because I expect them to act in certain ways in that position.
It’s the same with us being chosen by God. We have the position but we have to behave according to the laws and rules that God imposes on us for that position. God asks us to separate from worldly practices in our businesses, marriages, friendships, etc. and to dedicate every part of our lives to bringing honour to Him.
We obey God out of love and there is a reward in doing that – intimacy and relationship with God.
Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them (John 14:21).
On top of all that, God, in His incredible generosity and kindness, has given us the endurance and patience from His empowerment so that we can be holy.
We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power
so you will have all the endurance and patience you need (Col. 1:11).