by Matt Chandler
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called.
Romans 8:28–30

What is the basis for our relationship with God? How does our relationship with God work?
Our answer begins with a look at Romans 8:28–30. In particular, let’s consider the words “those who are called.” I think, for the sake of vibrancy in regard to our relationship with God, we have to keep ever before us that He called us.
I played basketball and football when I was kid, just like my son does (and I was terrible at both, just like my son is). And after I started playing high school football—and by “playing” I mean they let me be on the team—a guy named Jeff Faircloth came up to me in the locker room and said, “Hey, I need to tell you about Jesus. When do you want to do that? You tell me when we’re doing it, but it’s happening.”
Now, Jeff’s version of Christianity was very different from the one I saw at home. But I found it compelling. So I started going to church with him. But church, honestly, was just the kitschiest, goofiest thing I’d ever seen. There was so much stacked against my ever believing in this Jesus Jeff followed. At that time, I had no language for the effectual call of God, and so I’d get in Jeff’s car as he drove me home after church and I’d mock the whole thing. I mean, “Did we really just spell the word joy with our bodies? Did they really just do a skit with puppets?” But then Jeff would ask me if I wanted to go back and I kept saying “Yeah.” I thought it was dumb; I thought Jeff was wrong; but I couldn’t stay away.

Thought to Remember for Today

I know, looking back, that God was calling me. He was wooing me, and it wasn’t because I was trying to get better. It was while I was at my worst. It was while I was belittling His name, while I was mocking His bride. It was while we were sinners that Christ died for us, and it is while we are sinners that God calls us to Himself.

Fitzpatrick, E. (2016). Grace untamed: a 60-day devotional. Colorado Springs, CO: David C Cook.