“And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.”
– Romans 8:30
Yesterday we looked at the Apostle Paul and how his life, though not easy or ideal, glorified God, even through obstacles and trials. Today, I want to encourage you with a thought that Paul penned in Romans 8 to convince you that regardless of what is happening in or around you, the Lord has a good plan for your life! When you see the word predestined in the verse above, what comes to your mind? If you grew up in the church, you might think about a theological debate over a doctrine pertaining to who will be saved. While this may have its place, it is my goal in the next couple of minutes to get you to look differently at that word and this verse. Quite simply, being predestined means that before you were born, God had a destiny for your life, and that destiny was good. He picked you to be a reflection of His awesomeness and then He gave you a calling. However, in order to carry out the call, you needed to be justified, and that happened through the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus. Interestingly, looking at the order of these things, you were actually predestined and called before you were justified. In other words, God calls the unjustified — hurting, broken, addicted, and messed up — and then cleans them up to do the job He gives them. Finally, after you were justified, you were glorified. Not only were you called to greatness and your sins wiped away in the process, you were chosen to be a reflection of the glory of God; a person who gives light and hope to the world! Friend, a lot of what the Lord is doing in your life is to glorify it, not so that you will be proud and egotistical, but so that you will shine — overflowing with compassion, joy, mercy, blessing, abundance, and purpose. Touch people with the tangible goodness of Jesus so that when you leave this life behind, others will be better for having known you. Remember, glory is part of your calling and that calling was proclaimed when you were in your mother’s womb. Your life matters, you make a difference, and you have a grand destiny! Isn’t that wonderful news? |
Prayer
I praise you, Jesus, for predestining, calling, justifying, and glorifying me. In all that I do, I want to be a living, moving reflection of your beauty and goodness.
Reflection
What do you think it means to be glorified as you walk with Jesus? Are you walking in that glory today?
2 Responses
Does God have a plan in my life
Hi John,
Thanks for writing to us! Yes, we absolutely believe that God has a plan for your life. You are here on earth at this very time for a reason, and Jesus has given you gifts and talents that are unique to you. In other words, the world needs what you have. Your strength comes from the Lord and He can work in and through you to do great things — nothing is impossible with Him! Here are some verses to encourage you:
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5,6
We are praying for you and believing that God will continue to reveal His good plan for your future. God loves you and so do we!