Daily Devotion  ·  #211

Chosen and Appointed for a Purpose

John 15:16

Scripture: John 15:16 (KJV)

“Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.”

Introduction

Many people live searching for purpose, wondering if they are truly significant. In this verse, Jesus reassures His disciples—and us—that we are not here by accident. He has chosen us, appointed us, and given us a mission. Our lives have meaning because we are part of God’s divine plan.

1. We Are Chosen by God

Jesus says, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you.” This reminds us that:

  • Our relationship with Christ is not based on our own initiative but on His divine calling.
  • Salvation is a gift of grace, we did not earn it, but God chose us in His love and mercy (Ephesians 1:4-5).
  • Being chosen means we are special to God, called into a personal relationship with Him.

Reflection: Have you embraced the truth that you are chosen by God, not by your own works, but by His grace?

2. We Are Appointed to Bear Fruit

Jesus not only chooses us but also appoints us with a mission: “that ye should go and bring forth fruit.” This fruit represents:

  • Christlike character - The fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) should be evident in our lives.
  • Good works - Serving others, sharing the Gospel, and living out our faith (Matthew 5:16).
  • Lasting impact - Jesus desires fruit that remains, meaning our lives should produce eternal results, leading others to Him.

Reflection: Are we living in a way that bears lasting spiritual fruit?

3. Prayer and Power in Christ’s Name

Jesus concludes with a powerful promise: “that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.”

  • This speaks of a close relationship with God where we pray according to His will.
  • When we are abiding in Christ, our prayers align with His desires, and we see His power working through us.
  • Prayer is not just about asking for blessings but about seeking God’s will and strength for our mission.

Reflection: Are we praying in alignment with God’s purposes, trusting Him to provide what we need?

Application: Living as Chosen and Fruitful Disciples

  1. Embrace Your Calling - Recognize that God has chosen you for a purpose.
  2. Remain in Christ - Stay connected to Jesus to bear lasting fruit.
  3. Live with Eternal Impact - Let your life reflect Christ and lead others to Him.
  4. Pray with Confidence - Seek God’s will and trust Him to provide.

Conclusion

God has chosen us, not just for salvation but for a mission—to bear fruit that lasts. Let us live with purpose, abiding in Christ, and trusting in His power to fulfill His calling in our lives.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing us and appointing us to bear fruit for Your glory. Help us to abide in You, live with purpose, and pray according to Your will. May our lives reflect Your love and bring lasting impact. In Jesus’ name, Amen.