Eph 1:11
In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: KJV
This verse is found in the middle of one of the most exciting passages in all of Scripture (Eph. 1:3-14). we are told all the things that God has done for us and are given the promises of what is to come. This entire section is worthy of meditation and memorization.
Many want to get hung up on the ‘predestinated’ aspect of the verse, and so miss out on the fulness of blessing that is here. Whether I was predestined to come to the Lord or not is inconsequential in the light of the fact that I AM HIS!!
One thing is certain: after coming to the Lord, there are many things He has in store for us. They are in His plan for us; His predestined purpose for us.
But none of His predestined purposes or promises are without provisions. If they were, then Paul’s prayer and exhortations following this exalted passage is meaningless.
What I see here in this verse is that God has worked on my behalf for me to fulfill His purpose. He has done this according to His wisdom, and not mine. I have obtained an inheritance in Christ, and now there is divine help to ensure that I get it.
Are there any guarantees? Nope. Heaven is the only guarantee from my belief in Jesus Christ. Everything else falls under the realm of reward.
Rewards are for those who earn them. (Remember the parable of the talents.) But, we do not have to be competitive, nor toil incessantly, nor any other kind of work that is a part of the curse.
Trust and obey, for there’s no other way…
Practical Bible Teaching 