I Am Chosen and Commissioned to Love
"You didn't choose me, but I've chosen and commissioned you to go into the world to bear fruit. And your fruit will last, because whatever you ask of my Father, for my sake, he will give it to you!" (John 15:16, TPT)
One of the most powerful truths we can embrace, is that God chooses us. We did not stumble into faith by accident, nor did we reach for God before He first reached for us. He handpicked us with a divine purpose—to love, to serve, and to bear lasting fruit. Love is not just an option in the life of a believer; it is our commission.
In a world filled with division, pain, and self-interest, we are called to be reflections of Christ's love. To be chosen is an honour, but to be commissioned is a responsibility. We are not simply invited to receive God's love; we are sent to demonstrate it. And in doing so, we bear fruit that impacts eternity.
But how do we practically live out this high calling? What does it truly mean to be chosen, and how do we walk out our commission with purpose and love?
Let's look at four foundational truths that help us embrace and embody our divine assignment.
1. Chosen by God for a Purpose
When Jesus told His disciples in John 15:16 that they were chosen, He was not just referring to the twelve. He was speaking to all believers—you and I included. This declaration is a reminder that God's calling is not random or conditional; it is intentional and filled with purpose.
We often think of being chosen in the sense of being selected for a role, a job, or a task—something based on our skills, qualifications, or achievements. But in the Kingdom of God, being chosen is deeply personal. It is a reflection of His love and sovereignty, not our worthiness.
God chooses us not because of what we can do, but because of who He is. God's love for us is intentional. His choice is rooted in His desire for relationship, not mere responsibility. He calls us to Himself first, before He calls us to any assignment. This means that our value is not in what we accomplish, but in the fact that we are loved, seen, and appointed by the Creator of the universe. Being chosen by God carries both privilege and responsibility—it is an invitation to abide in His love and to bear fruit that will last.
2. Commissioned to Love Like Jesus
A commission is an assignment, a sending forth. Jesus makes it clear in John 15:16 that we are not just chosen for salvation but commissioned for impact. And what is the foundation of this commission? Love.
Jesus demonstrated this kind of love—one that was sacrificial, unconditional, and life-giving.
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another." (John 13:34-35, NIV)
We are commissioned not just to love when it is convenient, but to love radically—to love the unlovable, to extend grace to those who do not deserve it, and to serve selflessly even when it costs us something.
3. Bearing Fruit That Lasts
Many things in life are temporary. Wealth fades, achievements lose significance, and even relationships can change. But there is one thing that remains: the fruit of love that we cultivate in the lives of others.
Galatians 5:22-23 tells us that love is the first fruit of the Spirit, followed by joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. When we genuinely love, we reflect Christ and leave behind something eternal.
The love we show in our homes, workplaces, churches, and communities has the power to transform lives, heal wounds, and draw people closer to God.
"Love never fails." (1 Corinthians 13:8, NIV)
When we love as Christ commands, we plant seeds that will bear fruit long after we are gone.
4. Equipped for the Commission
God never commissions us without equipping us. John 15:16 assures us that when we walk in obedience to our calling, God will provide everything we need. Jesus promises that "whatever you ask of my Father, for my sake, He will give it to you!"
This means that when we ask God for the ability to love difficult people, the strength to forgive, the grace to serve, and the wisdom to lead with kindness, He will empower us. In those moments, I often say to myself: Holy Spirit, I know I can't do this, but I know You can, by the grace You give me to do so."
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13, NIV)
When we depend on Him, we walk in the power of our divine calling.
You are not just chosen; you are commissioned. You are not just loved; you are sent to love. The greatest impact we will ever make in this world is not in what we accomplish, but in how we love.
As we step into this new month, let us fully embrace our calling. Let us choose to love fiercely, serve wholeheartedly, forgive quickly and love deeply. In doing so, we will fulfil the words of Jesus—bearing fruit that lasts, leaving a legacy of faith and love that will echo through generations.
Prayer
"Father, thank You for choosing me and commissioning me to forgive quickly and love deeply. Help me to love as Jesus loved—unconditionally, sacrificially, and wholeheartedly. Let my life bear fruit that glorifies You and brings others closer to Your presence. Equip me with the strength, wisdom, and grace to walk in this calling. In Jesus' Name, Amen."
