Take a look at Jesus’ words to the disciples in John 15:16. It’s a personal message of encouragement to us too. God personally chose each of us. He wanted us specifically for Him. He has a plan for our lives. He helps us to keep going when we think we can’t do what He asks. He encourages us when we’ve run out of steam. ‘The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble…the Lord holds them by the hand’ (Psalm 37:23-24 NLT). He wants us to be successful for Him. ‘No weapon turned against you will succeed…These benefits are enjoyed by the servants of the Lord’ (Isaiah 54:17 NLT). That means any spiritual attacks directed at us, or obstacles designed to stop us fulfilling His plan won’t work, as long as we keep our focus on Him. But just because we’ve been chosen by God doesn’t mean we can go off and do our own thing. Paul said, ‘Do you think we should continue sinning so that God will give us even more grace? No! We died to our old sinful lives, so how can we continue living with sin? (Romans 6:1-2 NCV). When we’ve been chosen and appointed by God, we can be sure of our position in Christ, even if our condition isn’t perfect. It’s also why God sometimes allows tests and temptations to come our way. He knows that it’ll help us understand that we’re dependent on His love, and helps us keep ourselves deeply rooted in Him. He has an assignment for each of us, and He wants to see us do our best in that assignment. And when we realise that, nothing can stop us.

What now?

Begin each day this week by reminding yourself: ‘God chose me’.