Did I decide? Or did God decide?

I often have discussions with folks about the plan and method of God’s salvation. The debate is usually revolving around our personal decision to follow Christ, and God’s saving our soul. Where does is the line drawn between human effort and divine effort? I’m a firm believer that no one would be interested in the gospel, outside God drawing them to Him. 

On the surface, from our perspective it looks like “oh look, I’m talking about Christ and they’re interested”. But beneath the surface, God is at work, drawing them.

Lydia's conversion in the Book of Acts serves as an illustration of how God's salvation is initiated and granted by Him. Her story confirms the biblical principle that salvation is ultimately the work of God rather than a result of human effort or merit. Here's how Lydia's conversion confirms this:

1. **Divine Initiative:** Lydia's conversion begins with the "Lord opening her heart" (Acts 16:14). This phrase highlights the divine initiative in the process of salvation. It indicates that it was God who initiated the change within her, making her receptive to Paul's message. This aligns with the Bible's teaching that faith itself is a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8-9).

2. **Prevenient Grace:** Lydia's story exemplifies the concept of prevenient grace, which is the idea that God's grace goes before us, preparing our hearts for salvation. In her case, God's work in her heart made her ready to respond positively to the Gospel message when it was presented to her.

3. **Regeneration:** The opening of Lydia's heart by the Lord is a form of spiritual regeneration or being "born again." In this moment, God transforms her from a state of spiritual deadness to spiritual life, enabling her to understand and embrace the truth of the Gospel.

4. **Dependency on God:** Lydia's conversion underscores the truth that salvation is not achieved through human effort, wisdom, or merit. She did not earn her salvation through her position, wealth, or actions. Instead, it was solely God's work in her heart that led to her conversion.

5. **God's Sovereignty:** Lydia's story highlights God's sovereignty in choosing whom to save. Her conversion was not due to any inherent superiority on her part but was entirely dependent on God's will and purpose.

6. **Illustration of Grace:** Lydia's profession as a seller of purple cloth emphasizes her financial independence and worldly success. Her conversion underscores the idea that God's grace extends to all, regardless of social or economic status.

Overall, Lydia's conversion serves as a powerful example of how God's salvation is a gracious and divine act. It showcases God's initiative, grace, sovereignty, and power in the process of transforming individuals from spiritual darkness to light. Her story reminds believers that our salvation is a gift that comes from God's abundant love and mercy rather than anything we can earn or achieve on our own.