As believers, we often grapple with questions about God's will for our lives. One of the most common questions I encounter in my pastoral ministry is, "What is my calling?" It's a question I've wrestled with myself. In this post, I want to share some biblical insights on how we can discern God's will, particularly when it comes to understanding our calling.
Understanding God's Will and Calling
Before we dive into the practical aspects of discerning our calling, it's crucial to understand that God's will isn't a riddle to be solved. It's clearly revealed in Scripture. We can categorize God's will into three main areas:
- God's will of decree (His sovereign will)
- God's will of desire (His moral will)
- God's will of direction (His specific guidance for our lives)
When we talk about our "calling," we're primarily dealing with God's will of direction, but it's important to remember that this always aligns with His sovereign will and moral will.
Four Keys to Discerning Your Calling
When it comes to discerning our calling, particularly in areas like career choices or major life decisions, I believe there are four key factors to consider:
1. Our Gifting
Romans 12:6 teaches that every believer has a unique gift to employ in the body of Christ. God's providences often overlap with these gifts. While this doesn't necessarily dictate your career path, it's a good starting point to consider how God has uniquely equipped you.
However, be cautious about becoming prideful about your gifting or thinking certain tasks are beneath you. Remember, Jesus, the most gifted man to ever walk the earth, spent years as a carpenter.
2. Areas of Exposed Need
Romans 14:7 reminds us that we don't live for ourselves. One way God leads us is by exposing us to needs around us. Think of the apostle Paul, whose desire was to preach Christ where He had not yet been named (Romans 15). Or consider missionaries like William Carey or Hudson Taylor, who were moved by the need for the gospel in specific regions.
In my own life, God has often led me by exposing me to needs. Whether it was taking a job at a Christian camp or coming to pastor this church, these decisions were often driven by seeing a need and feeling burdened to meet it.
3. Our Desires
As our minds are renewed by God's Word, He also renews our desires. Psalm 37:4 tells us that when we delight ourselves in the Lord, He gives us the desires of our hearts. This doesn't mean God will give us whatever we want, but rather that He shapes our desires to align with His will.
Don't fall into the trap of thinking that if you enjoy something, it can't be God's will. God is a good Father who delights in giving good gifts to His children (Matthew 7:11).
4. Wisdom from God's Word and Others
In a world of abundant information, we must not confuse information with wisdom. True wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7). We need to root our minds in Scripture and pray for God's wisdom (James 1:5).
Seek counsel from wise, godly people in your life. The wisest people I know don't tell me exactly what to do, but they ask probing questions that help me arrive at a conclusion.
The Role of the Holy Spirit in Discerning Your Calling
As we seek to discern our calling, we must remember the crucial role of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit illuminates our hearts and minds to understand Scripture, intercedes for us in prayer, and gives us confidence as we walk in obedience.
When we're walking in step with the Spirit, we can make decisions with a clear conscience, trusting that even if things don't work out as we expect, we're still in the center of God's will.
Practical Steps in Discerning Your Calling
So, how do we practically apply these principles when trying to discern our calling? Here are some steps to consider:
- Immerse yourself in God's Word regularly.
- Pray, reminding yourself of God's promises and character.
- Take action. Don't be paralyzed by indecision. As Elisabeth Elliot wisely said, "Do the next thing."
- Seek wisdom from godly mentors and friends.
- Consider your gifting, the needs around you, and your desires.
- Make a decision with confidence, trusting in God's sovereignty.
Rethinking the Concept of "Calling"
The concept of "calling" can sometimes be confusing or paralyzing for believers. We often hear, "Wait for your calling," or "If you can do anything else besides ministry, do that." While I understand the intent behind such statements, they can be misleading.
Your calling isn't necessarily a mystical experience or a dramatic moment of clarity. For most of us, it's a gradual process of walking with the Lord, serving faithfully where we are, and being open to His leading.
Remember, you can glorify God just as much by being a kindergarten teacher as by being a conference preacher. All work is before the eyes of God and for His glory. Don't fall into the trap of thinking that only "ministry" jobs matter to the kingdom of God.
Your Calling in Every Season
Your calling isn't just about your job or your major life decisions. Your ultimate calling is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. This can be lived out in any circumstance.
Whether you're a student, a business professional, a stay-at-home parent, or a retiree, your calling remains the same: to love God, love others, and make disciples. The specific ways you live this out may change with different seasons of life, but the core calling remains.
A Word on Marriage and Calling
While not directly related to career choices, marriage is one of the most significant decisions you'll make and greatly impacts your ability to fulfill your calling. When considering marriage, look for someone who:
- Loves Jesus genuinely
- Is a hard worker
- Has chemistry with you
- Is teachable
- Loves to serve others
Remember, you marry who a person is, not their potential. Choose wisely, as your choice of a spouse will greatly impact your ability to serve God and fulfill your calling.
Conclusion: Freedom and Joy in Your Calling
As we wrap up, I want to emphasize that discerning your calling isn't meant to be a burden. There's freedom and joy in walking in obedience to God. When we're actively in God's Word, walking by the Spirit, pursuing purity and gratitude, and seeking to be transformed into the image of Christ, we can trust that God is guiding our steps.
Don't be paralyzed by the fear of making the wrong decision. If you're walking closely with the Lord, you can move forward with confidence. As the Psalmist says, "The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way" (Psalm 37:23).
Remember, your next move isn't your last move. God is sovereign, and He can redirect your path at any time. Trust in His goodness, lean on His wisdom, and step out in faith. Your calling will unfold as you faithfully follow Him day by day.
May you find joy and freedom as you seek to discern and follow God's calling for your life. After all, that's what the Christian life is all about – not a begrudging march of duty, but a joyful journey of obedience and intimacy with our loving Father.
