Are you the 'Chosen'?

This question often stirs within us, even in childhood, and recurs throughout adulthood. It surfaces especially during moments of hardship: illness, loss of employment, personal tragedy, financial distress, or the death of loved ones. In such seasons, we naturally ask, "Why is this happening to me? Does God see me? What more must I do to gain His attention?"

To seek clarity, we must return to the earliest books of Scripture—Genesis, Exodus, and Deuteronomy—where we encounter God’s designation of Israel as His "Chosen People." Yet, upon closer examination, we discover that Israel’s election was not based on merit or righteousness. God Himself dispels this misunderstanding in Deuteronomy 9:4–6: “Do not say in your heart… ‘It is because of my righteousness that the LORD has brought me in to possess this land,’ whereas it is because of the wickedness of these nations… for you are a stubborn people.” In this sense, Israel may be a mirror for all humanity, reflecting our shared dependence on divine grace.

The divine election of Israel was grounded not in human worthiness but in God’s sovereign love, His faithfulness to the covenantal promises made to the patriarchs—especially Abraham—and His redemptive purpose for the world. Israel was called to model obedience, covenant faithfulness, and monotheism amid pagan cultures. God appointed them as His witnesses, demonstrating what it means to live in relationship with Him, to receive His blessings, and to experience His discipline when unfaithful. As Isaiah 43:10 proclaims, “You are my witnesses, says the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he.”

Yet, despite this calling, Israel rejected the Savior when He came in human form. Nevertheless, Scripture promises their future restoration. Zechariah 12:10 foretells a time when Israel will look upon the One they pierced, mourn in repentance, and receive an outpouring of divine grace. Through Israel’s story—its election, failure, discipline, and restoration—God reveals His steadfast love, mercy, justice, and saving power to all humanity.

Ultimately, God’s purpose in choosing Israel was never exclusivity, but universality. Through them, He sought to make known His redemptive plan to all nations. In Christ, this invitation extends to every person. Thus, we are all God’s children, and in Him, we are all “chosen.” Each life is precious. Each soul is seen. God’s love encompasses every one of us.

Therefore, be encouraged. Trust in His providence, rest in His love, and walk confidently in the assurance that you are known, cherished, and called by God.