Romans 9

In this chapter Paul reinforces the doctrine of election (that before God created anything he chose those whom he would save). For centuries this doctrine has been the center of much controversy among Christians, but Paul actually makes a defense of this doctrine before the chapter is over.

First, Paul recalls God's promise to Abraham to show that not all of Abraham's offspring were counted as children of God. Only those who were children of the promise, meaning only those on whom God chose to have mercy, were counted as children of God. "So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy" (vs 16). This is true for all mankind. Salvation does not rest on the shoulders of men; remember, it is God who justifies. "He has mercy on whomever he wills, and he hardens whomever he wills" (vs 18).

So the natural response becomes, "How can God still find fault in us if no one can resist his will?" Paul says to that: "Who are you, O man, to answer back to God? Will what is molded say to its molder, 'Why have you made me like this?'" The infinite God has the sovereign right to manage the affairs of his creation. All that he does is just. So even though this doctrine seems to us to be incompatible with human responsibility, God says it is not.
 
So what is our response? As those who love and fear the Lord we should humble ourselves before our almighty God; who, in his mercy, has brought us out of darkness and into the light. Instead of questioning God's ways, we should adore the grace he has given to us, and take great care to make our calling and election sure.

Might God be calling you to soften your heart and simply submit to him, and walk in obedience of what he has commanded?