Ephesians 1:11

Obtained an inheritance. Or, “were chosen [by lot].” Every believer is already in possession of his inheritance by promise. The Christian’s inheritance comes to him as a right by the adoption mentioned in v. 5. This inheritance is in Christ, who purchased it with His blood.

Being predestinated. Or, “being marked out beforehand” (see on vs. 4, 5). Predestination is referred to here again, probably in order to show that the obtaining of the inheritance was no accident or chance. It was in line with God’s predetermined purpose.

Counsel of his own will. It is cause for assurance that God works according to His will and not according to that of man, for man’s will is capricious and unpredictable. Men challenge, or question, the acts of God and deign to ascribe to Him the same changeableness that is in themselves, forgetting that behind His every act stand His perfection and His infinite love. Since in Him is infinite wisdom joined with infinite love and sovereign will, He is under no constraint nor necessity.