Is The Lord Calling YOU?
A call to ministry is a unique call. Its uniqueness is identified in a singular person, for a singular role, from a singular God. It is made more special by the fact that not only is God the caller, but also the enabler and equipper. Therefore, when God calls you respond.
In Acts 9, Luke portrays the calling of Saul, later to be known as Paul, in climactic fashion. Struck sightless by a bright light the Lord spoke to Paul and others, making Paul’s mission clear (cf. Acts (9:1-19). Paul was to be a chosen vessel to proclaim the name of God (Acts 9:15; Romans 1:1; Galatians 1:15-16).
Rarely does the Lord make such a sensational exhibition in a person’s life today. Yet, he does continue to operate in a powerful form. Even more, he does so in a way that is clear and unmistakable. Despite that clarity, many people still find themselves asking the question, “Is God calling me to ministry?”
God calls different people in different ways. As every person responds differently, God works with individuals according to his greatest glory and their greatest good (cf. Romans 8:27-28). For many believers, the discernment of God’s will has proven to be a difficult experience, and thus it becomes a mystical one. However, God’s will is not hidden, but is knowable (cf. Romans 12.2). Let us not overcomplicate it to such a degree that makes it unreachable and instead search in such a way that assures us of God’s call to ministry.
It goes without saying that all believers are called to ministry in some form or another. Every believer is called to make disciples (Mathew 28:19). Every believer is called to participate in the body of Christ (Romans 12:3-6). What about the full-time call? What can be some indicating factors of such a call on a person’s life? I would suggest to you that a look at the following four areas are revealing, if not conclusive, about one’s call:
- Spirit: Do you have a desire or an inclination to serve? The Lord can certainly use the Holy Spirit to give us a spirit of service.
- Situation: What is the situation of service? If there is no opportunity to currently serve, then perhaps it is not now God’s timing for you to serve in that particular area. On the other hand, if there is a clear need, then perhaps he has made the path clear for you to embark.
- Skill: Has God equipped you with the skills you need to serve? Certainly this does not mean that God has taught you everything you need to know about Him. Nor does this have to refer solely to formal training. The point is, has God equipped you with the fundamental skills needed in order to best serve him. Furthermore, can others confirm those skills in you as well?
- Scripture: While last on this list, it is the first place any of us should turn when seeking God’s will. What does Scripture reveal about the opportunity? From his word we find truth and wisdom, applicable to every situation, therefore it is the first resource to be consulted.