I do not believe in predestination where God has determined every step a person must take throughout life’s journey. When I study Ephesians 1: 4 For he (God the Father) chose us in him (God the Son) before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love 5 he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will– (Eph 1:4-5 NIV) I see we are selected to be Holy and Blameless in his sight, He selected us to be his children. But
NIV 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. (2Pe 3:9 NIV) shows us that it is not just you and me, it is everyone. He desires everyone to come to know him and be adopted as his children and to be perfected in life. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (Joh 3:16 ESV)
Nevertheless, I know I was born for a specific purpose and as one man said, “We are immortal until God has finished with us.” So as I look over my life, I realized many of my steps were predetermined. Yes, I had free will, but I gave my life to Him and he took it for His purpose.
Like a famer once said as he was chasing an escaped pig around the yard “You have a choice, you can go back by your own free will, or I will force you.” Isn’t it better when we are obedient by choice?
ceg