Why is understanding divine calling important for Christians?

The importance of recognizing divine calling cannot be overstated for Christians. It assures them that their faith and ability to respond to God stem from His initiative rather than their own merit. Jesus illustrates this in John 10:3-4, where He calls His own sheep by name, emphasizing His personal relationship with His followers and their spiritual awakening. Additionally, acknowledging that faith is a result of divine calling rather than human capacity helps to alleviate the burden of performance or self-effort in the believer's life. This strong foundation in God's sovereignty not only provides comfort but also deepens one's understanding of grace, leading to a more robust faith.