In Jewish tradition, it was the father who chose the bride for his son. It is the same for us, the Church of God. The Father calls people out of the world, not only to be firstfruits, but also to be a fitting bride for His Son, Jesus Christ. If we are striving to be like Christ, which is right and good, then we are growing in love and preparing to be that bride. God is working in us, perfecting His love within us, and preparing us to be a fitting bride.