Desire to Know God and Go to Heaven as Evidence of Election
The desire to know God and go to heaven is a commendable aspiration, yet it is not in itself a definitive indication of election. According to Reformed theology, election is a sovereign act of God, wherein He chooses those who will come to faith in Christ. Paul writes in Romans 8:28 that "for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." This verse highlights the idea that God's purpose and calling are key factors in determining one's election.
A genuine desire to know God can be a sign of the Lord's drawing, but it is not a guarantee of election, as even those who are not elect may have a superficial interest in spiritual matters. The Bible teaches that true faith is a gift from God, and it is He who grants repentance and faith to those whom He has chosen.
The critical aspect to consider is not one's desire, but rather the presence of a genuine, saving faith that is rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ. This truth addresses the heart of the question, emphasizing the importance of understanding the nature of salvation and the role of God's sovereignty in it, and pointing to the need for a humble and dependent posture before the Lord, recognizing that salvation is entirely a work of His grace.