Reflection: “The Lord did not love you and choose you because you were greater in number than any of the other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. But because the Lord loves you and is keeping the oath which He swore to your fathers, the Lord has brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed (bought) you.” Deut 7:7-8
Response: According to Baker’s Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology, the word covenant refers to “a coming together… [where]…God initiated, determined the elements, and confirmed his covenant with humanity. It is unilateral. Persons are recipients, not contributors; they are not expected to offer elements to the bond; they are called to accept it as offered, to keep it as demanded, and to receive the results that God, by oath, assures will not be withheld.” Thus, as believers, our relationship with God is not based on merit, status, or how good we are. We are accepted because God chooses to love us regardless of our weaknesses or failures.
The underlying basis of God’s covenant relationship is love. His covenant reflects His steadfast, everlasting love towards us. His love aids us through difficulties, carries us through storms, shields us from unforeseen circumstances, and protects us from harm. In His love, we enjoy enlargement to our influence, multiplication of our seed, and fruitfulness in our harvests. His covenant of love enjoins us blessings that pursue and overtake us as we walk in partnership with God’s will and way.
Live exceptionally- in balance, freedom, and rest. ™ God’s love toward you as a believer is not based on merit—what you have done, what you do or don’t do, how good you are, or because you deserve it. God loves you because His nature is love. He chooses to love you. His love is active and always present even when you feel you don’t deserve it. Embrace His choice. He chose you.