James 1:18

"Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures" (James 1:18).

As much as we struggle with choices on a daily basis, it is beyond comprehension knowing our sins, struggles, insecurities and failures, that without fail, God chose to have a relationship with us. And not just any relationship, but the most intimate relationship we could ever have (more so than with our wives, children, family members or friends).

He sets us apart in His creation, and that is a privilege that we ought never take lightly for it was bought with a price by the shed blood of Jesus.

As we've studied previously, God is true, unwavering and constant. His Word is absolute for all eternity and trustworthy, inspired by the Spirit of truth so that we would be able to share in His wisdom and grow in our personal relationship with Him.

But more importantly, His will is not contingent upon man's response. He does not hold back His favor but shares it graciously so that we would not be deceived or tempted to sway from the shelter of His Word. Therefore, we are without excuse in knowing His true character.

Yet I find my heart at times almost drifting about this truth. Because I don't stop to intentionally reflect upon it, in my flesh, I tend to take it for granted, and I worry my brothers in Christ share the same plight. So how do we break the monotony?

I believe we can encourage one another of this truth when trials of life are overwhelming, such as reminding our brothers in Christ that God set us apart as first-fruits of His creation for a specific purpose helps remind the heart that this life is not void of meaning.

Or because God chose to love us of His own will according to the truth of His Word, the stronghold of loneliness and isolation that Satan plagues us with is destroyed.

Bottom-line: Our hearts need reminders, and it is our obligation as Christ-followers to preach this truth so we know who God is, lest we're deceived.