Is God Calling You?

Have you ever felt so convicted and convinced over something in your life that knew with every ounce of your being you were meant to do it? Was there ever a time when you heard the Lord speak to you as clearly as if He was standing right next to you? The Apostle Paul felt that way when he wrote to the church in Rome about his experience being called by God. And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.  For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified (Romans 8:28-30).

Paul is telling us that God calls specific people to specific purposes. Being called is defined as experiencing a divine invitation or deep conviction to fulfill a specific purpose. Some refer to this as a "holy calling". I was called to preach in 2016. When I share that with people, I get a lot of mixed reactions. "What do you mean you were called to preach?" Does that mean you had to go to seminary to study how to be a preacher?" How do you know it was God that called you?"

My answer to these types of questions is simple, God extended an invitation to me that I could not ignore or refuse. He placed the calling so deep in my being I could not escape it. For many, the calling is to preach, teach, serve and/or sacrifice. Although there are examples of these callings throughout the bible, God calls others to fulfill other important purposes as well. However, for as many as have been called, many have refused this calling. How do we have the ability to refuse an all powerful, all knowing and all present God? Because He gave us the freewill do be able to do so. That is what makes fellowship so sweet between you and God; it is a choice and not a command. So why do some refuse to answer the call of Christ?

Some fail to listen. Jonah was literally trying to escape to Tarshish when God called him to go to Nineveh and preach against the wickedness in the city. Instead of answering his calling, Jonah went his way and ended up in the belly of a whale (Jonah 1:1-3, 17). Like Jonah, you may be trying to escape God's calling for your life.

Some fail to learn. Life is full of lessons, both good and bad. Regardless of which one, we can learn from both if we choose to do so. Throughout my life, God has used experiences to help teach me His will. The problem is I can sometimes be a slow learner.

Some fail to leave. Brace yourself for what I am about to share with you. God's calling for you may not be in your current "bubble". His calling may take you out of a current job, relationship, physical address or community that is a source of comfort and convenience. The Book of Isaiah (6:8) is where we read God asking who He is going to send. Notice He is looking for those willing to go. Many may be called, but few may be willing to go.

A true calling from God is biblically sound (in harmony with His Word), undeniable and specific in purpose. Another vital characteristic in a holy calling is the fact that it should always lead others to see Jesus in you. A holy calling is about His purpose, not your prize...