Why is understanding that faith is not a choice important for Christians?

Understanding that faith is not a choice is crucial for Christians because it shifts the focus from human effort to divine sovereignty. By recognizing that faith arises out of the truth of God’s revelation, believers can appreciate their total dependence on God's grace for salvation. In the sermon, the preacher notes that saving faith occurs when one has no other option but to believe the truth of the gospel. This understanding safeguards against the pride of self-reliance and reinforces the doctrine of sovereign grace, which teaches that salvation is entirely the work of God, not subject to personal choice. As stated in Romans 9:16, salvation is not earned through human will or effort, but through God's mercy—a concept that is foundational in Reformed theology.