All believers have others in their lives who reject Christ. For devoted believers this is can be hard to bear. Many believers become depressed, excessively grieved, and some even experience stress and resulting illnesses.
But look at this passage from Isaiah for just one moment.
“…Bring my sons from far away,
and my daughters from the ends of the earth—
everyone who is called by my name,
and whom I have created for my glory,
whom I have formed,
yes, whom I have made.”
Isaiah 43:7 (WEB)
God knows His own sons and daughters, even before they are born. He has always known who will love Him and accept His invitation to be redeemed.
True believers want others to know what they know about the love of God. It is truly heartbreaking to know those who refuse Him.
Every person is made in the image of God. Even though this passage from Isaiah is specifically for the Hebrews, it is also for every person who may believe. The scripture says so. “…everyone who is called by my name…”
How do I know that this passage and others like it is for everyone who will believe?
Because I have read (John 3:17). I believe that God is good. I believe that God has the power to keep every life in His grasp who will not reject Him. (John 10:28-29)
But because God is good, every person has to make the choice to either reject Him or to believe.
In the book of Romans Paul mentions an Old Testament story that may help you trust Him more.
In his letter to the Romans, Paul refers to the story of Elijah and Obadiah. Their story is found in 1 Kings 18. Those of you who are familiar with the story, know that Elijah, and all of God’s faithful servants have been brutally persecuted by wicked King Ahab and his treacherous wife, Jezebel.
In the story, Elijah gave instructions to Obadiah to tell King Ahab that Elijah wanted a meeting with him.
Obadiah was a faithful servant who we will learn more about next week. For now, suffice it to say that Obadiah was stricken with fear at the thought of approaching the murderous king.
Lord, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars. I am the only one left, and they are trying to take my life!
Paul reminded the Roman believers of the ancient story and of Elijah’s words to the frightened man.
Take a look-
“But what was God’s answer to Obadiah?
I have left seven thousand for myself who have not bowed down to Baal. In the same way, then, there is also at the present time a remnant chosen by grace. Now if by grace, then it is not by works; otherwise, grace ceases to be grace.”
Romans 11:3-6
God knew that 7,000 men believed. He kept them safe to fulfill His plan, and He kept them safe spiritually.
You see, God is able to keep those who will be saved from ever being snatched from His saving grasp.
I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all. No one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.
John 10:28-29
While we believe that there are many who will ultimately reject Christ, we don’t know who all of the Elect are. We are simply charged with sharing the Gospel message with all nations. (Matthew 28:16-20)
And we are encouraged to trust God who loves mankind.
There is hope for everyone until their last breath. Rest in God’s love for your lost loved one. Always trust in His power to save…
…and share the Good News in your world!
Isaiah 52:7
Christian Standard Bible (CSB)
The Christian Standard Bible. Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible®, and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers, all rights reserved.
King James Version (KJV)
Public Domain
Statement of Faith
Getting the Seed out of the basket and into hungry hearts. Matthew 13 