I am not one of God's elect because of something good God saw in me.  There never was, is not now, and never will be any good in our flesh.  "For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing.”  Paul said he knew it.  The problem with most religious folks is they don't know it, and until they do, they will continue to brag and boast of what they have done for God.

    I am not one of God's elect because of something God saw I would do.  Left to my own will, I would have continued in darkness and even now would depart from God.

    I am not one of God's elect because God needed me. It bothers me when we leave the impression with anyone that God, or the Church of the Lord Jesus can profit any way from our presence, influence, or gifts.  When will we ever learn that we are receivers and beggars?  There is not one ounce of goodness in any son of Adam that could be used to commend one's self to God.  "What has thou that thou did not receive?"

    By the grace of God, I am what I am.  It was grace that set me apart before time was. It was his grace that made me an object of his love.  It was his grace that laid hold of me when I was in the pit and brought me to the Lord Jesus.  And if it be my lot to continue in the faith, to grow in faith and love, to die in hope, and be raised in glory, it will be all of grace.  Thanks be unto him who alone is worthy of glory and honor.

"There I raise my Ebenezer
Hither by Thy help I'm come
And I hope by Thy good pleasure
Safely to arrive at home."