So then it is not of him who wills,
nor of him who runs,
but of God who shows mercy.
Romans 9:16 [NKJV]
The context of this verse reminds us that there is no unrighteousness or unfairness with God. It is a direct rebuke of those who would believe that our Lord is, in some way, behaving unjustly when he delivers all unbelievers to eternal death. Those who would subscribe to such a notion have their perspective completely backwards.
But we who follow Christ understand that we do not compete with others for a place in glory. We do not have eternal life because any of us are "good" people. And no man who legitimately earns eternal life -- by living a perfectly righteous and holy life -- will be denied it.
And that, brothers and sisters, is the critical point. None have lived perfectly, and therefore none have earned eternal life. Rather, Christ has granted each of His chosen people .... imperfect, sinful and unholy .... His righteousness and holiness. It is the Lord who shows mercy upon ones who deserve eternal punishment. He has bestowed His favor upon us, that we might live abundantly, now and forever.
Be encouraged, Jose
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