The doctrine of election is a doctrine for believers. It is given especially to believers from gentile nations as we grew up in an environment that is based on the system of the world, a godless system. The right understanding of this doctrine can help us stand firm for God in the midst this world.

1) Choice in our election (Eph 1:4a)

God knows us and has chosen us even before the foundation of the world. As we come to know God, we realise that all our experiences from the moment we were born, are for a higher purpose, for our own good and for His glory. God uses all our experiences (even our negative experiences) to mould and shape us and prepare us. Thus, we must not compare with others and complain. God makes no mistakes. We are to trust Him and forgive those who may have wronged us.

2) Result of our election (Eph 1:4b)

Knowing that we have been chosen by God, we must lead a godly life, holy and without blame. There must be no secret sin, no skeletons hidden in our closets. Even the tiniest speck of sin must be cleared away. How we live our lives must reflect the fact that our salvation came at a high price: God had to send Jesus to die on the cross for us. Hence, whatever we do must not be for ourselves, or just for others, but always for God.

3) Destiny of our election (Eph 1:5)

As children of God, we are part of God’s family; and we are to serve God. With that in mind, we must not murmur or complain as we serve. Even if we are to serve as slaves, we are to be happy. Yet, God has chosen us according to the good pleasure of His will to be His children, not His slaves. Remember that this world is not our home. Our home is in heaven, where we will be with God our Father and His family.

4) Impact of our election (Eph 1:6)

We must praise God for the glorious and amazing grace we have received from Him. We are now accepted by God and we are embraced by God. From now on, may God be our motivation in all that we do.