Day 185

Of Effectual Calling.

Chapter 10, Paragraph 1.

“…yet so as they come most freely, being made willing by His grace.”

Scripture Lookup

Psalm 110:3

Song of Solomon 1:4

Reflection

So much happens when God effectively calls a sinner to Himself. He calls the sinner from her state of sin to grace and salvation. He enlightens her understanding in a saving way, replaces her stony heart with one of flesh, and renews her will so that she desires that which is good. In short, when it comes to conversion, God does it all.

So what is left for Miss Converted to do?

All she has to do is simply repent and believe. Invited by the Holy Spirit to come, she willingly goes to Christ and receives the blessings that come from Him. Every one of God’s elect come to Christ freely and of their own volition. No one ever gloomily accepts the gift of salvation, furious that they are now His!

Does this mean that the elect can’t refuse to be saved? Yes, and no one would ever want to refuse it. God does not force anyone to believe against their will, but graciously changes the will so that good is desired. When you taste and see that the Lord is good, and to be preferred above everything, you do not want anything else. Indeed, you cannot choose to reject Him, for you have seen how truly wonderful He is. Refusing Him is not an option, because no one who is converted would ever want to refuse Him.

Have you been called by Christ? Do you desire to know Him? If your thoughts have been stirred towards spiritual matters, and you find yourself longing to be saved, do not delay. Turn to Him, lean upon Him, believe in Him, and He will not turn you away, for after all, He is the One who has called you.

Questions to Consider

• Are you thankful for God’s work in regenerating you?