Are We Pre-Picked by God?

For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified. Romans 8:29–30 (NKJV)

Ever wonder what it means when God talks about His ‘predestined’ or ‘foreordained’ plans for us?

Certain denominations have interpreted Romans 8:29–30 to mean that God has determined in advance who He will save. But John 3:16 says that God so loved the world that He gave Jesus, that whosoever believes in Him will be saved. Jesus died to make a way for everyone—not just certain pre-picked people.

These verses actually teach that when we choose with our free will to give our lives to Jesus Christ and believe on Him, a miracle takes place inside of us. Our old nature is gone and replaced with a brand new one. With this new nature, He pre-planned for you to learn to walk, talk and conduct your life and your relationships as Jesus did.

Often, reading the whole paragraph, chapter or book helps us to get a proper sense of what’s being said. For example, when Romans 8:29 talks about being conformed to the image of His Son, it doesn’t mean we’ll all physically look like Jesus. It’s talking about inwardly sharing Jesus’ likeness.

Choosing to believe on Jesus accesses God’s prepared plan for us to learn to live fully and to mould our lives so that we live like Jesus. As we study His Word, build our faith and grow relationally with Him, we will walk this planet with authority, passion, joy, health, laughter, protection and healing—as Jesus did. That’s what God predestined us for!