“Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble,” (2 Peter 1:10).
A Practical Guide to Living Out God’s Plan
The phrase “make your calling and election sure,” taken from 2 Peter 1:10, sounds lofty at first. In simpler terms, it’s an encouragement to live with purpose and intentionality. It’s not about earning God’s favor or proving you deserve His love—those things are already given through grace. Instead, it’s about aligning your life with God’s plan and reflecting His calling for you.
What Does “Calling and Election” Mean?
Think of “calling” as God’s invitation to be part of His kingdom and purpose. It’s a reminder that every individual has a unique role in God’s grand design. “Election,” on the other hand, signifies being chosen by God—a concept rooted in His love and sovereignty. Together, they highlight how God has a special plan for each of us.
How Do You Make Them Sure?
Making your calling and election sure is like tending a garden. It means nurturing qualities that God desires to see in us. These include faith, love, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, and kindness. The more you cultivate these virtues, the more your life will reflect God’s purpose.
Diligence and Growth
Peter emphasizes diligence, which is another way of saying “effort.” This isn’t about passively waiting for spiritual growth to happen. It’s about taking intentional steps—like praying, studying the Bible, and practicing what you learn in daily life. Growth happens gradually, but each step strengthens your connection to God’s plan.
Fruitful Living
When you focus on developing these virtues, something amazing happens: your life starts to bear fruit. This doesn’t mean literal fruit, of course, but rather the visible effects of living according to God’s will. Kindness, generosity, patience, and love become evident in your actions, showing others—and yourself—that you’re walking in alignment with God.
The Promise of Abundant Entrance
Peter provides a beautiful promise in this verse. Those who make their calling and election sure will receive an abundant welcome into God’s eternal kingdom. Think of it as arriving at a celebration prepared just for you, with all of heaven rejoicing in your faithfulness. It’s not just about getting through life—it’s about thriving in a way that honors God and blesses others.
It’s Not About Earning
One key point to remember is that this whole idea isn’t about merit. You don’t have to “earn” your way into heaven. Salvation is a gift of grace. It is freely given through Jesus Christ. Instead, making your calling and election sure is about responding to that gift. It’s about living in a way that reflects your gratitude and faith.
In Summary
The phrase “make your calling and election sure” is a call to action. It reminds you to live intentionally. Reflect God’s grace in everything you do. Grow in virtues like love, perseverance, and kindness. By doing so, you can show the world what it means to live a life rooted in God’s purpose. And as you do, you can look forward to the abundant joy and peace of entering His kingdom.
So, don’t let this phrase intimidate you. Instead, let it motivate you to take small steps. Make each step meaningful. Work toward living a life that mirrors God’s plan. This is a life full of faith, growth, and love.
May God watch over you, take care of you, and bring you happiness and peace!
Minister A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 