It is always fun when GOD confirms something true that I have come to believe from my personal study of HIS Word. Such was the case when Chuck Smith illustrated the beginning words of 1 Peter 1:2, “elect according to the foreknowledge of GOD the FATHER”.
Chuck asked, “If you went to the racetrack fully knowing without question which horse would win, who would you bet on?”
Why would you not bet on a loser?
In the same way, GOD knowing who would believe and trust in JESUS chose them to be HIS own and designed a specific plan for their lives (Ephesians 2:10) even to the determining of all times and places where all occurs (Acts 17:26, Ephesians 1:11) for the purpose that man might reach out to HIM (Acts 17:27).
In other words humanity does not reach out to GOD on his own but as things happen to us they are designed to give us opportunities to reach out to GOD, but the choice is ours.
GOD knows all things past, present and future (John 16:30, John 15:18 KJ, Isaiah 42:8-9, 46:9-10), GOD knew before HE created anything that people would sin. Knowing that, the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY devised a plan to save WHOSOEVER would turn to HIM and believe and trust in JESUS the SON of GOD’s sacrifice on the cross and resurrection from the dead. The offer is given to everyone even though GOD knows many will refuse it. This was all determined before the foundation of the world, or anyone sinned (Revelation 13:8).
It is so amazing how our Sovereign Maker can have absolute control and yet allow humanity choice. No one can take the credit for GOD gives all opportunities and insight, nor have any excuse (Romans 1:18-21).
We definitely do not understand why GOD allows all that HE allows for we do not have all the facts.
As the Most High says, “For MY thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways MY ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are MY ways higher than your ways, and MY thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9).
Even though we cannot understand the Most High GOD completely, we can believe that HE is and that HE rewards those who diligently seek HIM (Hebrews 11:6).
Are you in that number?
Hugs
Sharon