He Chose You

One of the first verses that really struck my heart when I became a Christian about 17 years ago was this:  You did not choose me, but I chose you… (John 15:16).

There is something really powerful about that.  I mean, think about it.  You were specifically and purposely chosen by God.  He chose you to have a relationship with Him.  He chose you to fulfill the plan that He has for your life.

That verse ended up becoming part of my email address when I first created one (hizchozen) and has been with me for many years.  To some it may sound a bit prideful.  But to me it sounds delightful.

It is especially empowering when you think about the times you have been rejected.  Were you rejected as a child?  Were you rejected in a relationship?  Did schoolmates consider you an outcast?  Did you ever feel left out? 

I remember always hating when it was time to play volleyball in gym class.  I was afraid of the ball and most times would run from it.  I don’t have to tell you that I was always one of those picked last.  I remember hearing groans from the team that ended up getting stuck with me.  Ouch…those kinds of things hurt.

But guess what?  I don’t let those things get to me anymore.  Of course, it helps I have grown up since then.  But I still experience circumstances where I could easily get upset. 

You know those days where you feel like your friends aren’t there for you, you call someone but they never return your call.  Your spouse doesn’t seem to understand you.  Your children don’t seem to even notice you.  In the midst of all of these ugly moments I remember this…He chose me.

Friend, He chose you…it doesn’t matter what the world says about you or how others look at you.  In the end, what is most important is that you belong to God.  You didn’t choose Him but He chose you.