Pastor Tricia's Ramblings

Have you ever been part of a team? Picture this: it’s a bright day at school, and you’re ready for a friendly game of basketball. Two captains stand at the front, surveying their troops, and the dreaded moment arrives—team selection. As the names are called, the air hangs heavy with anxiety. If you’re not one of the first to be picked, you might feel like you’re just waiting for the inevitable letdown. Your eyes cast downwards, you silently hope and pray that someone will yell: “I want him/her!”
This scenario can feel all too real in life, where not being chosen or feeling overlooked can significantly impact our self-worth. However, despite the fear of rejection we often experience, there’s a beautiful truth woven into the fabric of our existence as followers of Christ—God has chosen you.
In the New Testament book of Ephesians, the Apostle Paul writes to the believers in the city of Ephesus, offering an enlightening reflection on our identity and purpose in Christ. Let’s delve into Ephesians 1:1-14 to explore Paul’s profound insights and uncover the blessings that come from being a chosen child of God.

Unpacking Paul’s Greeting and Blessing

Paul opens his letter with a standard greeting, yet echoes through the ages with a rich message: “To the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Ephesians 1:1-2, ESV). In these opening verses, we see not only the customary salutation but also an invitation to receive grace and peace—a gift from our Creator.
Setting the tone, Paul conveys an essential truth: within our new life in Christ Jesus, we have been gifted with every spiritual blessing. Imagine that! Every spiritual blessing is at our disposal—not just some, but all. This emphasizes the generosity of God’s heart; we are not just recipients of limited grace or forgiveness. Instead, we find ourselves swimming in an ocean of God’s blessings.
These blessings, as Paul continues to elaborate, consist of God’s grace and kindness. They are manifested in the freedom and forgiveness that Jesus purchased for us through His sacrifice on the cross at Calvary. It’s this freedom that liberates us from the chains of guilt and sin—transforming our lives and providing a fresh start through Christ.

Access to Divine Wisdom and Peace

As we journey through life, we often grapple with uncertainty and confusion, seeking guidance in our decisions. Yet, as believers, we have access to wisdom and understanding that surpasses any earthly knowledge we might acquire. Paul reassures us in this letter that through our relationship with Christ, we can access divine wisdom and discernment, guiding our paths and illuminating our choices.
In addition to wisdom, Paul speaks of a peace that passes understanding (Philippians 4:7). This peace, rooted in a trusting relationship with Christ, provides an inner calm amidst life’s turbulent storms. It serves as an anchor for our souls, keeping us steadied when the waves of chaos threaten to overwhelm us.
Moreover, an incredible gift of the Holy Spirit has been bestowed upon us. The Holy Spirit acts as our guide, leading and directing us toward our eternal inheritance laid out by God. This inheritance is not just a distant promise; it is the reality of our identity as children of God and co-heirs with Christ.

Chosen and Predestined: A Declaration of Identity

Ephesians 1:4-5 reveals something truly astonishing: “even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love, he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will” (ESV).
To be chosen is a powerful acknowledgment of our identity; God chose each of us long before we ever existed. Long before we heard the gospel or had hopes for our lives, God had His eye on us. He designed our lives with a purpose in mind.
The Message translation of verses 11-12 gives us further insight, stating, “It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living.” This revelation shifts our perspective dramatically. Our worth is not defined by external circumstances or the opinions of others. Instead, it is rooted firmly in the fact that we have been chosen by God, predestined to fulfill a unique and glorious purpose.

Embracing Purpose: Your Unique Calling

Have you ever wondered what your specific purpose is? Many individuals jostle with this crucial question, often struggling to discern the path they are meant to take. Here, Paul’s words serve as an encouraging reminder: you are not an accident or a mistake; you are intentionally crafted by God for His glory.
Jeremiah 1:5 solidifies this truth, reminding us that “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you.” Each of us has a divine plan that God instilled before our lives began. The journey to discover that purpose is sacred.
So, how do you embark on this journey? Begin by seeking God through prayer. Open your heart and ask Him to reveal what you were created to accomplish. Explore your passions, gifts, and the burdens that tug at your heart. Are there causes that stir you deeply? Individuals or communities in need that ignite your compassion? These inclinations are often clues leading you to the unique calling God has crafted for you.

Walking in God’s Power

Now, some may feel overwhelmed or apprehensive at this thought. What if you are not equipped for the calling that God gives you? The beauty of God’s grace is that we do not walk alone. Peter assures us in 2 Peter 1:3 that “His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness.”
God equips us with the necessary strength and resources to live the life He has called each one of us to lead. When you feel inadequate, remember that God’s power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Additionally, recognize the role of the Holy Spirit in our day-to-day living. As our power source and guide, the Holy Spirit empowers us to pursue our divine purpose faithfully. Just as we plug in our devices for energy, we must likewise remain connected to the Holy Spirit, allowing ourselves to be fueled for the journey ahead.

Living Out Your Purpose Daily

So, what are your first steps toward living out your unique calling? Here are some practical ways to begin:

1. Daily Prayer: Start each day dedicating time to connect with God. Prayer is the lifeline by which you can receive guidance, strength, and clarity.
2. Scripture Reading: Make it a habit to engage with the Word of God daily. Allow His truths to shape your thoughts and beliefs as you align your life with His will.
3. Find a Community: Surround yourself with a supportive faith community that encourages your spiritual growth. Share your aspirations and fears, and allow others to walk alongside you.
4. Take Action: Start small—get involved in local volunteer opportunities or ministries that resonate with your heart. Sometimes, purpose comes alive when you step out and take action.
5. Stay Open: Be willing to adapt and change as you grow in your understanding of God’s call for your life. Allow space for new dreams, goals, and directions that God may place before you.

Conclusion

In Ephesians 1, Paul paints a beautiful tapestry that intertwines our identity as chosen children of God with the extraordinary blessings we receive through His grace. It provides us encouragement that we are part of a grand narrative—a divine purpose that we can actively step into.
The next time you find yourself feeling chosen last or overlooked, remember: God has chosen you. He has magnificent plans for your life, and while you may not have been the first pick on the schoolyard, you are a vital asset on God’s team. Embrace your identity, seek your purpose, and plug into His power, for you were created for glorious living—the blessed life in Christ.
As you reflect on this, ask yourself: how will you respond to the calling God has on your life today? Every step taken in faith is a step toward discovering the rich blessings He has in store for you. Get plugged in, and live out your purpose!