Untitled

Just as [in His love] He chose us in Christ [actually selected us for Himself as His own] before the foundation of the world, so that we would be holy [that is, consecrated, set apart for Him, purpose-driven] and blameless in His sight. In love He predestined and lovingly planned for us to be adopted to Himself as [His own] children through Jesus Christ, in accordance with the kind intention and good pleasure of His will-- to the praise of His glorious grace and favor, which He so freely bestowed on us in the Beloved [His Son, Jesus Christ]. (Ephesians 1:4-6)

What does it mean to be chosen by God?

Being chosen is an invitation to participate.

It's an offer to step into a new, life-giving relationship — as well as God's work of transformation, in our own lives and others. He has chosen us in His love to be His children… pure and righteous in His sight through His Son Jesus Christ.

Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. Long before he laid down earth's foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love.

And God chose us before. Before the foundation of the world. Before God created the heavens and the earth. Before there were sea creatures, creeping things, beasts of the earth, and even people, God chose us in Christ to be in relationship with Him. Before the world was created, You predetermined that all of the blessings listed in the following verses would come through Christ, to those who are in Christ. You chose "us in him". Your plans to bless us with Your grace and peace preexisted the universe. Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything [every circumstance and situation] by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your [specific] requests known to God. And the peace of God [that peace which reassures the heart, that peace] which transcends all understanding, [that peace which] stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus [is yours]. (Phillipians 4:6-7) God is the only one that can give us peace.

It means to roll upon. God wants us to roll our burdens upon Him. God wants us to have a target to which we direct our anxiety. That target is God Himself. “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” The word 'cast' simply means to throw. The word 'care' refers to anxiety, stress, or difficulties in our lives. The phrase 'cast your cares on Him' means to submit your worries and anxieties before the Lord as He cares for us.

Casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully]. (1Peter 5:7)

God has promised that all things work together for good to those who love and serve Him faithfully. It may be difficult for us to see and understand how this is accomplished at times, but God has promised it, and He will deliver.

Father, we appreciate your promise to work out all things in our life, both good and bad, for our good. We ask, dear Father, for faith to believe this promise is true during painful and difficult times. In Jesus Name we pray. Amen

And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose. (Romans 8:28)