I never tire of telling my three girls how special they are to me. Even though they are all married and have children of their own, they love to hear their dad affirm his love for them. Would you like to hear such a message from God?
As Israel prepared to enter the Promised Land, God wanted them to know of His special love for them. “For you are a holy people to the Lord your God; the Lord has chosen you to be a people for His own possession out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth” (Deut. 7:6).
First, they were a holy people to the Lord. “Holy” not only relates to the issue of character, it speaks of service. Israel had been set apart for God’s service. Second, they were a “chosen” people. Israel was to be the instrument God would employ in the redemption of the earth. Further, God indicated that they were His “treasured” possession. Israel was chosen and treasured not based on their strength or might but simply because of God’s great love for them.
In the New Testament, Peter uses these same terms to speak of those who have a relationship with God through Jesus Christ His Son (1 Pt. 2:9). Do you know why you were chosen? You were chosen, “So that you may proclaim the praises of the One who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (9b).
Have you thanked God lately for calling you to Himself? Have you told anyone about the One who chose you and seeks all?
Prayer: Father, I thank you for choosing me in Christ Jesus. Give me the opportunity to tell someone about your great love. Amen.