Podcasts about chosen by god

PETE KELLEY, Lead Pastor / Sixth Sunday of Summertide / 1 Samuel 16.1-12

This week, Pastor Scott Hand preaches from the book of Colossians. The message is based in Ephesians 1:3-6 and is entitled "Chosen By God." The main idea of the sermon is: God's people are blessed in that they are chosen by God for salvation so that they will be holy and blameless for his glory.———————— Connect with Us: Website: parkwoodonline.org Facebook: facebook.com/parkwoodonline Instagram: instagram.com/parkwoodonline.org Check out more resources and sermons online at: parkwoodonline.org

The meaning of being "elect". God already knew the plans he had for you, yet gave you free will to choose Him. He chose you to accomplish His purposes. Broadcast #7117To help support this podcast, please visit walkwiththeking.org/donate and select "Podcast" from the dropdown menuA transcript of this broadcast is available on our website here. To hear more from Bob Cook, you can find Walk With The King on Facebook or Instagram.

Our identity is not determined by who chooses us in this world—the team that accepts us, the relationship that works out, the opportunity we receive, or the recognition we gain. As children of God, we belong to Him. We are His treasured possession, called out of darkness and into His light. Remembering that we are chosen changes the way we see ourselves and our circumstances. Earthly disappointments may still hurt, but they no longer define our worth. God’s choice of us is rooted in His love, His purpose, and His eternal plan. Highlights: Our deepest sense of belonging comes from being chosen by God Earthly rejection does not change our identity as God’s beloved children God calls us His special possession and invites us into His family Staying grounded in Scripture helps us remember who we are in Christ God’s plans and blessings are greater than the opportunities we may miss Join the Conversation Have you experienced a time when God reminded you that He saw your pain, needs, or circumstances? How does knowing that God is El Roi—the God who sees you—change the way you approach difficult seasons? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Chosen by God By Alexis A. Goring Bible Reading:“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”—1 Peter 2:9 NIV Have you ever struggled with a sense of belonging because you did not feel chosen? Most people want to be chosen. Whether chosen to play with others when we were children, chosen to be asked to the prom by our high school crush, chosen to attend the college of our choice, chosen to marry the person of our dreams, chosen for a job we worked hard for or chosen for other things we want out of life, the desire to be chosen is a universal feeling and part of life on earth. But do we know that the Creator of the Universe chose us before we chose Him (Ephesians 1:4-5)? God chose us to be part of His Family. Since He is King of the Universe, that means we as His children are a special kind of royalty. We are daughters and sons of the Eternal King. But how often do we forget this Biblical truth and act like we don’t know our true identity in Jesus Christ? I know I tend to be forgetful of this, and I struggle to maintain a heavenly perspective because it is easy to be consumed by how our world programs us to think. This is why it is so important to stay grounded in God’s Word. The Bible says in 1 Peter 2:9 that we are a people chosen by God. We are special to Him. God doesn’t just choose you; He transforms you as He calls you out of darkness into His wonderful light. When you choose to give your life to Jesus Christ, then you have passed from death to life (John 5:24). You now have the hope of eternal life after Jesus returns to Earth to take His children home to Heaven. But while we are still living on Earth, it is important to have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16) and not be bogged down by what we go through in this world. Our experiences on Earth shape us. I know what it is like to not be chosen for the team, not chosen by the man whom I thought I wanted to marry, not chosen by the dream employer whom I would love to work for, or not chosen for so many other of my heart’s desires. But instead of worrying about these missed opportunities to be chosen, it helps me to remember that the King of the Universe chose me and you first. And He offers us a life better than our wildest dreams when we enter Heaven. The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 2:9 (GW), “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined the things that God has prepared for those who love him.” God has amazing things in store for His chosen people when we step into eternity with Him. But that doesn’t mean He doesn’t also have good plans for us while we are living on Earth. God can still answer our prayers and bless us beyond our wildest dreams, and help the right people to choose us. We just need to pray for His will to be done in our lives. He wants to bless you on earth, too, though those blessings pale in comparison to what He has in store for us when we start eternity in His Kingdom. Next time you feel disappointed or sad about not being chosen by a person or company, or an opportunity here on Earth, look up to the sky and imagine God smiling down at you, saying, “I still choose you, my child.” Let that Biblical truth marinate in your mind. Write it down in your prayer journal. Post it on your mirror so you can remind yourself every day that God chose you. Soak in His pure, unconditional love for you and remember who you are in Jesus Christ. In closing, I would like you to listen to these two songs: “Remember Who You Are” sung by Crystal Lewis. And “I Still Want You” sung by Tramaine Hawkins. Song of Reflection #1: “Remember Who You Are” by Crystal Lewis. Listen to it HERE. Song of Reflection #2: “I Still Want You” by Tramaine Hawkins. Listen to it HERE. Intersecting Faith & Life: How does it feel to know you are chosen by God? Further Reading:John 15:16Isaiah 41:9Colossians 3:12Philippians 2:5-81 Thessalonians 1:4-5 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Welcome to today's Guided Prayer, where we invite you to find a quiet space to still your mind and body.  Guided Prayers are a daily 5–10 minute, intentionally created moment to slow down and meet with God—through scripture, reflection, and honest prayer.It's not a program you attend.It's a pathway you practice.A guided space where people can stop, breathe, and connect with Jesus—every single day.

1. God lovingly treasures His holy people. 2. God graciously chooses His holy people. 3. God sovereignly redeemed His people 4. God faithfully keeps covenant with His holy people. 5. God rightly commands His holy people.

Message from Sandeep Christian on 14 June 2026

All through the Bible, we find God revealing His attributes to people. This week, as we learn how He revealed Himself to the Philistines, we will learn about His holiness and His judgment. But we will also learn about His wonderful mercy. Join us as we study 1 Samuel 5–6.

Most believers don't struggle with whether God speaks. People struggle to know if they're actually hearing Him. In this episode of Chosen by God, Connie sits down with Rachael Groll for an honest conversation about what it really means to recognize God's voice in the middle of everyday life. Not in the quiet moments alone. But in decisions, doubts, parenting, pressure, and the weight of wanting to get it right. Because underneath so many questions is one that doesn't get said out loud: "What if I miss Him?" Together, they unpack: Why hearing God often feels unclear, even for faithful believers The difference between God's voice, your thoughts, and outside noise How to grow in discernment without becoming anxious or over-spiritualizing everything What Scripture actually shows us about how God speaks And how to move forward with confidence when you're not 100% sure This isn't about chasing a feeling or waiting for a perfect answer. It's about becoming the kind of person who can recognize His voice— and trust Him enough to follow it. If you've ever second-guessed a decision, questioned what you're sensing, or quietly wondered if you're doing this whole "hearing God" thing right, this conversation will encourage you.   Join the Equipped To Be community: Podcast: Equipped To Be IG: @conniealbers FB: ConnieAlbers.Author X: @ConnieLAlbers Popular Episodes: The Lie That is Exhausting Parents  Adult Children Cutting Off Their Parents: What is Happening What Still Matters in an AI-obsessed World with Jonathan Brush Children Carry Their Parents' Stress   Read the full show notes with links here: Chosen by God with Rachael Groll   If you enjoy listening to Parenting and Homeschool Advice ~ Equipped To Be with Connie Albers, please leave a review and a five-star rating. It is easy and will only take a few seconds. When you do, it helps others see the show in their feed. Also, would you kindly share this with a friend or two? Equipped To Be might be an encouragement to them, too. Thank you ~ Connie   Have a question? Interested in having Connie speak? Send an email to Connie here: https://conniealbers.com/contact/   

It is too dangerous to seek validation from people when God has already chosen you to uniquely rule over your assignment the way He has instructed for you to do so. When God chooses you, your identity is not up for debate.You don't need approval to dream.You don't need permission from others to walk in the authority God gave you.You don't need confirmation from people to agree with what God said is possible in your life.If God said it, then it's settled.If God chose you, then it is already done.Your circumstances do not get to decide what is possible in your life.God already did.This is why you must stop looking for validation and start walking in who He already called you to be.If this is speaking to you, I encourage you to read my book “necessary.” and take some time to reflect on what God has already said about you.The Book “necessary.” by Zenja GlassAudiobook, videobook, or signed paperback can be ordered at UnlockingGreatness.com“necessary.” is also available worldwide via Amazon or any bookstore.Visit https://www.UnlockingGreatness.com

What if your faith didn't begin with your decision—but with God's? In this message, Pastor John Carter unpacks the powerful truth that you were chosen, known, and loved by God long before you ever called on Him, bringing a deeper sense of peace and security in your salvation. Discover how grace, not performance, anchors your life—even in seasons of struggle.

Fr. Mike uses King Saul as an example that God does not unchoose those he has chosen, and never loses faith in us. Even if we feel someone is in power unjustly, it's God who decides who holds power, not us. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 24 and Psalm 57. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

God designed a plan for salvation before the world was even created, knowing that sin would enter and we would all need a Savior. His Son was chosen to die for our sins, and now we have the opportunity to choose Him and be saved.

Belgic Confession of Faith: Article 16

Today's Promise: John 15:16 In this episode, we explore a promise that can transform how you see yourself and your relationship with God: you didn't choose Him, but He chose you. Before you had anything to offer, before you could earn His favor, His love reached out and made you His own.   Through a touching illustration of adoption, this episode paints a vivid picture of grace. God's love is given not because of worthiness, but because of desire. You'll be reminded that even at your lowest, God saw you, pursued you, and called you into His family.   Set aside the debates and distractions, and simply rest in this truth: You are loved and chosen by God. He adopted you for a purpose that will last. Let this promise renew your identity, strengthen your faith, and fill your heart with gratitude today.

Do you ever wonder if God truly delights in you—not out of obligation, but because you are His? Many believers know they're saved, but live as if they're on probation rather than fully loved as sons and daughters of the Most High. Today's devotion pulls back the curtain on one of Scripture's most transformative truths: predestination, election, and your adoption into God's eternal family.Pastor Roderick Webster opens Ephesians chapter one (KJV) to reveal how God marked you out beforehand—before you ever chose Him—and secured your place in His household through Jesus Christ, all according to the good pleasure of His will.───In This Episode:What predestination really means—and why it's good news, not badThe purpose of election: to be holy and blameless before God for eternityHow adoption into God's family changes everything about how you liveThe role of the Holy Spirit in crying out "Abba, Father" on your behalfWhy God's delight in you is the foundation of your identity and confidencePractical steps to live as if you're chosen, beloved, and fully acceptedPassages explored: Ephesians 1:1, 1:5, 1:11 | Colossians 1:21–22 | Romans 8:15 | Galatians 4:4–7 | Philippians 2:15 | Ephesians 5:27 | 2 Peter 3:11–14 (all KJV)───Key Scripture:"Because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father." — Romans 8:15 (KJV)───Watch / Listen:https://youtu.be/3NYHEn6qtuAContinue the series: Words From The Word — All Spiritual Blessings: A Devotional Journey Through Ephesians (KJV)───Share this episode with someone who needs to know they're chosen, loved, and forever secure in God's family.#WordsFromTheWord #KJV #Ephesians1 #ChristianIdentity #GodsLove

Were you chosen by God before the world began? That is the heart of today's devotion with Pastor Roderick Webster on Words From The Word, the daily devotional series from Good News Baptist Church in Sint Maarten.Drawing from passages including John 6, 1 Peter 1:20, John 15:16, Ephesians 2:4-5, Romans 8:15, and Colossians 2:10 (KJV), Pastor Webster walks us through the powerful biblical truth of election — what it means, when it happened, why God did it, and what it means for you today.You might be asking:- Does God really choose people, and what does that mean for me?- Was this decision made before I was even born?- Why would God elect anyone — what motivated Him?- What do I actually receive as a result of being chosen by God?Key points from this devotion:- Election is biblical — angels, Christ, the apostles, and the church are all described as elect- God chose us before the foundation of the world, not because of anything we did- The motive behind election is God's great love for us- The result of election is adoption — we are His children- The goal of it all is God's gloryIf this devotion blessed you, please like, leave a comment, share this video, and subscribe so you never miss a Word From The Word.#WordsFromTheWord #KJV #BibleDevotion #ChristianLiving #GoodNewsBaptistChurchStay connected with GNBC:

Were you chosen by God before the world even began? In this devotion from **Words From The Word**, Pastor Roderick Webster opens Ephesians 1:4 (KJV) — *"According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love"* — and carefully walks us through one of the most profound truths in all of Scripture: God's election and what it really means for your salvation.You might be asking…- Does being chosen mean I have no choice in coming to Christ?- Was Israel's election the same as personal salvation?- How does John 3:16 fit together with the doctrine of election?- What does it mean that God "drew" me to Himself?**Key points from this devotion:**-

The Bible tells us that God picked us to be in relationship with and follow Him, just like Jesus picked His disciples while here on earth. Rather than seeing all the reasons why we should not be chosen, we need to accept God's love for us and live in obedience to Him.

Pastor Tony delivers a sermon entitled, "Rejected By Man, Chosen By God"

RCC | Chosen by God - part 6 | PG | 3 1 26 by Remnant Christian Center

RCC | Chosen by God, not by people - part 5 | PG | 2.22.26 by Remnant Christian Center

Did you know you have been chosen by God? There is a place for all of us on God's team. God has a place for you. It's the right fit, the right opportunity, and the right assignment. God has place for you where you will thrive, a place that fits your gifting, your passions, and your calling. You have been chosen.Main Points:1. In the sovereignty of God, he prepared us for this moment in our lives. Not only has He given us opportunity, but he has equipped us through our various kinds of training. He has given us experiences that would give us the necessary knowledge and understanding. He has place mentors in our lives that will help shape our character. He has placed within you spiritual gifts. He has given you aptitudes, talents, and skills. You are right where God wants you to be. Why? Because He has chosen and appoint you.2. Why did God select us? We feel so unworthy. We often feel unqualified. Surely, God could have found someone else who is more capable and more proficient.3. Yet, God is not looking for the most talented, the most qualified, the most educated. He does not select on the criteria that men do. God is looking at the heart. Do you have a heart after me? Will you follow me? Will you serve for my glory? Will your ambition be the glory of God?Today's Scripture Verses:John 15:16 - “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”John 15:4 - “Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.” John 15:5 - “If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

RCC | Chosen by God, not by people - part 4 | PG | 2 15 26 by Remnant Christian Center

We conclude our series, "Chosen by God, Living as Exiles" with a teaching on "A Faith Received: Getting Back to Basics." The Apostle Peter was happy to remind the church of the central realities of our faith (2 Pet 1:12-15): the death and resurrection of Jesus, our new life and ongoing transformation in Christ, remaining faithful to Jesus in the face of suffering and opposition, and living in the hope of his glorious return and the fullness of the kingdom.- Series Description -  In this series we will explore 1 and 2 Peter, the Apostle Peter's two letters to the scattered first-century church in Asia Minor, who, though distant in time and place from ourselves, nonetheless share many of the very challenges that we do. We will consider what it means to be “third-culture people” who are chosen by God and called for his sake to live both fruitfully and prophetically in a land not our own 

When God calls people to follow him, he also often calls them to leadership roles within the church. What does it look like to lead and follow well while living as exiles?- Series Description - In this series we will explore 1 and 2 Peter, the Apostle Peter's two letters to the scattered first-century church in Asia Minor, who, though distant in time and place from ourselves, nonetheless share many of the very challenges that we do. We will consider what it means to be “third-culture people” who are chosen by God and called for his sake to live both fruitfully and prophetically in a land not our own 

RCC | Chosen by God, not by people - part 3 | PG | 2.2.26 by Remnant Christian Center

God calls us to action even when we're in exile. Even in the winter, God still calls us to bloom. How? We receive God's power and God's call. We participate in God's promises over us. We make every effort to confirm such things — for our own lives and the lives of others. This is how we grow — not only for one season of life, but for our whole lives. Lifelong growth is ours if we continue to experience God's power, trust in God's promises, and make every effort to grow even when winter or exile appear.- Series Description - In this series we will explore 1 and 2 Peter, the Apostle Peter's two letters to the scattered first-century church in Asia Minor, who, though distant in time and place from ourselves, nonetheless share many of the very challenges that we do. We will consider what it means to be “third-culture people” who are chosen by God and called for his sake to live both fruitfully and prophetically in a land not our own 

Send us a textThank You for your continued support of OneFaith!In this episode, I sit down with my friend and Pastor Dr. Edward Clemons for one of the most honest conversations we've ever had.Pastor Ed is the South Campus Pastor at Focus Church. He's a Husband, Father, Son and Faithful Friend. Pastors Ed and Evette Clemons launched Chozen to bring hope to others through their journey to adoption. We talk about The season that almost broke him: When the family dream doesn't unfold the way you imagined?Losing his church, walking through infertility, and navigating deep personal grief while still leading in ministry.We discuss the pain of shutting down a church, the emotional weight of infertility, and how God reshaped his story. This is a conversation for anyone who has experienced:Failure in ministry or leadershipInfertility or miscarriageWaiting on God in painful seasonsLeading while hurtingThis episode is filled with hope, honesty, and healing. You're not behind & You're not forgotten. God is not finished with your story. Closed doors don't cancel your calling, they redefine it..."You Are Still Chosen By God!”Link to Chozen Supply: https://www.chozn.supply/Follow Pastor Ed on IG Support the showThank You for Listening! When you like, share, subscribe & follow us on social media, you help advance the gospel to people we are targeting! You play a HUGE part in helping us build the Kingdom of God through the message he has given us! Help us build up God's Kingdom by following us @weareonefaith as we follow Christ! "One Lord One Faith One Baptism" - Ephesians 4:5

In the eyes of God, we are all His chosen ambassadors.

To be chosen by God! What an honor, what a responsibility, and indeed we called for both. By faith, by hope we leave our nets and follow the Man who can see who we will become – for we shall be like Him, those who hold no record of wrong, who are gentle, kind and rely on God to work within us this life-transforming image of His Son, Jesus.Daylight Meditations is a daily podcast from CFO North America. Please visit CFONorthAmerica.org to learn more about our retreats, and online courses. If you are encouraged by this podcast, please consider supporting us. Contributors: Michelle DeChant, Adam Maddock and Christine Miller

Melanie Solomon continues our series on Hebrews by teaching on 5:1-4.  Click the arrow below, or if you're reading this in an email you can click this link, to play the service: This service is available for download free on iTunes, where you can also subscribe to our podcast. Search for "Westchester Chapel" on the iTunes Store. If you want to know more about starting a relationship with Jesus Christ visit www.WestchesterChapel.org/salvation.

RCC | Chosen by God, not by people | PG | 1 25 26 by Remnant Christian Center

RCC | DISQUALIFIED BY PEOPLE -CHOSEN BY GOD | PG | 1 18 26 by Remnant Christian Center

Join us as Pastor Nathan continues our 1 Samuel teaching series in chapter 16. Samuel visits the family of Jesse the Bethlehemite in search of God's new anointed king of Israel. If you like what you heard, or want to learn more, visit our website at www.hopeinanderson.com

Join us as Pastor Nathan continues our 1 Samuel teaching series in chapter 16. Samuel visits the family of Jesse the Bethlehemite in search of God's new anointed king of Israel. If you like what you heard, or want to learn more, visit our website at www.hopeinanderson.com

Followers of Jesus, 1 Peter says, rejoice "even if now for a little while [we] have had to suffer various trials" (1:6). It's a teaching shared across the writings of the New Testament: the kingdom of God has come already in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the church but has not yet come in its fullness. We are born to a "living hope" as we await "a salvation... to be revealed in the last time" (1:3,5). And while we wait, we suffer-- a word used twenty times in 1 Peter in the NRSV.  Join us as we consider suffering in 1 Peter in the context of the kingdom come and coming and how we might suffer "mindful of God" (2:19) "entrusting [our] souls to a faithful Creator" (4:19)- Series Description -  In this series we will explore 1 and 2 Peter, the Apostle Peter's two letters to the scattered first-century church in Asia Minor, who, though distant in time and place from ourselves, nonetheless share many of the very challenges that we do. We will consider what it means to be “third-culture people” who are chosen by God and called for his sake to live both fruitfully and prophetically in a land not our own 

In our last teaching from Ephesians 1, we saw how Christians are chosen, adopted, redeemed, enlightened, designated, and sealed by the Holy Spirit. These are unchangeable blessings that define our identity in Christ. Here we look at Paul's gratitude for the Ephesians' faith and love, which are expressed in action, not just belief or feeling. Paul's prayer urges us to embody these truths as the united body of Christ.

The author of 1 Peter calls Jesus followers a holy priesthood (1 Pet 2:5). He commands them to be holy as God is holy.If the people of God are already living in exile, it could seem like this is just another hard thing: how can I live as a holy priest in a context of exile, oppression, and suffering? This is daunting unless holiness is not a standard to live up to, but a set apart path laid out for us with a guide who has chosen us to walk with him. The fundamental difference of this path versus any other is an experience of receiving mercy.- - Series Description -In this series we will explore 1 and 2 Peter, the Apostle Peter's two letters to the scattered first-century church in Asia Minor, who, though distant in time and place from ourselves, nonetheless share many of the very challenges that we do. We will consider what it means to be “third-culture people” who are chosen by God and called for his sake to live both fruitfully and prophetically in a land not our own 

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260110dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion [God] chose us in [Jesus] before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will—to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. Ephesians 1:4-6 Chosen by God Do you remember the feeling? You are preparing to play kickball during recess at school. Two captains are choosing players for their teams. They start with the best athletes. Was that you? Or were you picked later? Maybe even last? If God were picking teams, would you be chosen? There are days when you think, “Of course I would! I try my hardest. I’m honest, kind, and caring, just the kind of person God would want on his team.” And maybe you go to church, sing in the choir, and volunteer to serve in many ways. God should not only pick you but should name you MVP—Most Valuable Person. But there are other days—or parts of every day—when you realize that you don’t even deserve to be picked last. You shouldn’t even get a spot on the bench. So often, you hurt those around you with what you say or don’t say, with what you do or don’t do. With your life, you say to God, “I want to play by my own rules.” If God were picking teams, why would he choose you? But God did choose you! God’s choice was not based on your ability or performance. His choice, which he made before the creation of the world, came from pure love. He gives you that love freely, generously, and without condition. How comforting that is! It is all in God's hands. It is all because of God’s love. In love, God chose to send his Son, Jesus, to take away your sins and failures, so that you are holy and blameless in his sight. In love, God chose to adopt you as his own child through faith in your Savior, Jesus. In love, God chose to give you an eternal inheritance and a home with him in heaven. Praise God for his loving choice! Prayer: Father, I thank you that, in awesome and undeserved love, you chose me to be your child. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260110dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion [God] chose us in [Jesus] before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will—to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. Ephesians 1:4-6 Chosen by God Do you remember the feeling? You are preparing to play kickball during recess at school. Two captains are choosing players for their teams. They start with the best athletes. Was that you? Or were you picked later? Maybe even last? If God were picking teams, would you be chosen? There are days when you think, “Of course I would! I try my hardest. I’m honest, kind, and caring, just the kind of person God would want on his team.” And maybe you go to church, sing in the choir, and volunteer to serve in many ways. God should not only pick you but should name you MVP—Most Valuable Person. But there are other days—or parts of every day—when you realize that you don’t even deserve to be picked last. You shouldn’t even get a spot on the bench. So often, you hurt those around you with what you say or don’t say, with what you do or don’t do. With your life, you say to God, “I want to play by my own rules.” If God were picking teams, why would he choose you? But God did choose you! God’s choice was not based on your ability or performance. His choice, which he made before the creation of the world, came from pure love. He gives you that love freely, generously, and without condition. How comforting that is! It is all in God's hands. It is all because of God’s love. In love, God chose to send his Son, Jesus, to take away your sins and failures, so that you are holy and blameless in his sight. In love, God chose to adopt you as his own child through faith in your Savior, Jesus. In love, God chose to give you an eternal inheritance and a home with him in heaven. Praise God for his loving choice! Prayer: Father, I thank you that, in awesome and undeserved love, you chose me to be your child. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

God sees us as his chosen masterpiece through grace alone, not our efforts. This truth transforms how we approach life, relationships, and purpose. Listen now and be inspired to embrace your true identity and live with confidence in God's love.

Followers of Jesus live in a world that is often at odds with the life Jesus calls us to, and our own place and time is no exception. To be faithful to Jesus means that we will often feel out of place and called to ways of living and being that clash with the ways and rhythms of those around us. We are, in the words of the Apostle Peter, exiles, strangers, sojourners, foreigners, temporary residents in a land not our own, and it is in this situation that we must learn to embrace our core identity as the people of God and learn to live our lives in right relationship to God, to our fellow pilgrims in the church, and to all those around us.- Series Description - In this series we will explore 1 and 2 Peter, the Apostle Peter's two letters to the scattered first-century church in Asia Minor, who, though distant in time and place from ourselves, nonetheless share many of the very challenges that we do. We will consider what it means to be “third-culture people” who are chosen by God and called for his sake to live both fruitfully and prophetically in a land not our own

Fr. Mike uses King Saul as an example that God does not unchoose those he has chosen, and never loses faith in us. Even if we feel someone is in power unjustly, it's God who decides who holds power, not us. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 24 and Psalm 57. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.