How do we know salvation is based on God's purpose?

Salvation relies solely on God's eternal purpose, which is articulated clearly in Scripture. Ephesians 1:11 states, 'In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who works all things after the counsel of his own will.' This illustrates that our salvation is not contingent upon our works but is a result of God's sovereign decree. Moreover, in 2 Thessalonians 2:13, it affirms that God chose us for salvation through sanctification and belief of the truth. This confirms that God's purpose governs not only who will be saved but also the means of salvation itself, which is grace through faith.