“And when I passed by thee, and saw thee polluted in thine own blood, I said unto thee when thou wast in thy blood, Live; yea, I said unto thee when thou wast in thy blood, Live” — Ezekiel 16:6
“But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved)…” — Ephesians 2:4-5
The people of God do well to remember that no one who is elect of God is so because they are “better” than others, or because God foresaw some potential good in them. Indeed, believers can sin as much as the ungodly. It is GOD who is rich in mercy that glorifies himself in our salvation. He does not “reward us” with salvation, it is not something we can ever possibly deserve. The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people[1]…. For my strength is made perfect in weakness.[2]
Just as there is nothing special in us at present, nor anything good we may do in the future that causes God to elect us, he does not consider our past — our nationality, heritage, upbringing or the righteousness of our parents in His decision in who to save. Thy birth and thy nativity is of the land of Canaan; Thy father was an Amorite, and thy mother was an Hittite[3].
If the Bible tells us to owe no man anything[4] then surely God will not be indebted to any of us. Instead let us pray that he would beautify us with salvation[5] for His name’s sake.
“And ye shall know that I am the LORD, when I have wrought with you for my name’s sake, not according to your wicked ways, nor according to your corrupt doings, O ye house of Israel, saith the Lord GOD.”
Selah.
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