The next word we discover in the sequence of salvation, as explained by the Apostle Paul in Romans 28:29-30 is the word “called.”

First, we are told that God “foreknew” us from before the beginning of time. Then we are told that God “predestined” us to be in right relationship with Him. Now we are told that we are “called.”

This is a great word. Everyone of us is called. Unless people are involved in full-time vocational ministry, most do not think of themselves as being called. But that is a fallacy. We are all called. It does not matter if you are a pastor, janitor, stay-at-home mom, carpenter, doctor, nurse or schoolteacher, you are called.

This call was created at the same time as when God foreknew you and when God predestined you. He called you before the beginning of time.

God wants you to be His own. He created you to be in fellowship with Him. Sin got in the way. This is why God sent Jesus to die and be resurrected so you and I could be reconciled to Him. This would fulfill the call on your life.

Another aspect of being “called” is that of authority or ownership. In Genesis 2:19-20 we read how God put Adam to work and gave him the responsibility of naming the animals. In effect, this gave Adam authority over the animals. He named them. He called them.

In some ways, it is like naming a pet. You try to pick a name that fits. A name that will make that pet uniquely yours. God has done the same with you. He created you, then He called you to be His.

God has done the same with us. He called us. We are His. We are His unique possession. There is not another human like you. One translation of Scripture uses the word “peculiar.” We are peculiar to God. We are His one of a kind. Paul described us in Ephesians 2:10 as God’s masterpiece, His workmanship.

In Romans 11:29 informs us that this call is irrevocable. In other words, you will not be able to make God stop loving you. Nor can you make Him love you more. You are His. He called you. He desires relationship with you. He is patiently waiting for you to accept His invitation.

Always in Pursuit!

Don