[PeterPrinciple]

How is this reconciled then?

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On reflection, that is a very good question, worthy of much thought. It does not have a simple answer. May take a lifetime of reflection.........................

But my thinking does go to the following:

Mal 1:2 “I have always loved you,” says the LORD. But you retort, “Really? How have You loved us?” And the LORD replies, “This is how I showed My love for you: I loved your ancestor Jacob, ..................

It doesn’t look like love to the people being loved, It is almost like they are telling God to go love someone else.

On the other hand God does define love as choosing. So Justification is God choosing us. Sanctification is us (with the Spirits help) choosing God.

[MHGinTN]

"On the other hand God does define love as choosing. So Justification is God choosing us. Sanctification is us (with the Spirits help) choosing God."

Such a beautiful perception.