December 04, 2016: SOAP #2558:  Ephesians 1-4

Scripture:  Ephesians (NIV) 1:5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

Observation:   God choose us according to “his pleasure and will.”  No one was twisting God’s arm.  Joab had to trick David into restoring Absalom to Jerusalem in 1 Samuel 14.  No one tricked God into bringing us into His kingdom!  It pleased Him to do so!  Our position in His family brings Him joy and pleasure! He did this, not because of our worth, but because it pleased Him!  Oh, yes, we did have potential. That potential was placed in us by His creative act. But it was not that He could not pass up someone with potential, but that it pleased Him! His will was in working out His pleasure.

Application:  Knowing that I have been chosen according to the pleasure of His will, I must walk in humility with my one goal to make Him smile.

Prayer:    Heavenly Father, may you enjoy living in me.  I want my life to give honor to you.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!