I always get nervous when a person tells me they’ve been “called” to do something…especially when they are excited about it.
• I’ve been called to build a church. I’m taking out a loan…I’m sure God will provide.
• I’ve been called to continue to date this guy who is not treating me well. I’m going to stay with him though. After all, I am the only healthy person in his life.
• I’ve been called into ministry. Sure I’m leaving a great career for the unknown, but it’s ministry. Who can argue with that?
I’m not saying they weren’t actually ”called,” and I’m not trying to be a jerk here either. I just know too many people who have made huge mistakes in this area. And, in the midst of it, would swear they were “called” to do what they were doing. Today, looking back, they would agree that they were wrong.
So, as I see it, as leaders, we need to be careful saying those words…even thinking those words…or using those words to get people to do something you want them to do!
I think that there are three types of “callings.”
Calling #1: An audible voice or actual visit. I’ve never had one of these and I’m pretty sure I would be scared to death if I did. If this happens to you, I strongly suggest you change your pants and pursue your calling! (Thank you Jason for that line!)
Calling #2: You have an idea, you love the idea, and it seems like more than just an idea. These are the most dangerous ones. If you feel like you have been called in this way, I would lean into wise counsel before making any moves. Run it by the smartest people you know…and people who love you enough to be truthful. Let’s face it. We can talk ourselves into anything.
Calling #3: You had this idea…You don’t think you want to do it…but it won’t go away. These are safer callings. This may be the “still small voice” that we read about in scripture. I love to hear people talking about wrestling with their “callings.” But the advice remains the same: before you take action, seek out wisdom and pray.
Wise People, Time, and Prayer…that’s all I have to offer.
Anybody have any other ideas? How do you know Whose Calling it really is? Ours or God’s?
omg yes.
I’m currently stuck considering a potential career change that falls within Calling #2. Not only is it “dangerous,” but it’s down-right uncomfortable, too.
Keep wrestling with it! I agree with Darren above…Ministry is not just working for the church. You can do tons of ministry in the business world…maybe more than I can at church. Get some wise people who love you enough to tell you what you don’t want to hear on it. Thanks for your thoughts
I agree. This is very prudent and wise advise. Too many people, including myself at times, do what they want, and use God as the reason.
I think there’s a couple other things that could be mentioned about “calling”
1. EVERY believer has a call to ministry. Ministry isn’t something reserved for the few paid to do it. Ministry doesn’t only mean you’re standing in front of someone with a Bible cracked open. Ministry is the testimony of your life being lived out in your workplace, school, family,….
2. I think a “Call to Place” is distinct from a “Call to Purpose”. God’s created us all for a purpose and plan and in the journey of life we want to discover and live out that purpose. Purpose doesn’t change. What God created you to do doesn’t change. But where you do it can and will. I see to many people get confused about this and equate these two callings as the same thing. Sometimes they overlap…but they aren’t the same thing. In fact, I believe sometimes God calls us TO certain places because He wants to reveal in us something else about what He has called us to BE.
3. The first calling of God is always into relationship with Him. If we’re not pursuing that then how can we ever be certain about how God may call us in other ways?
Darren….thanks for the interest. These are all good and great discussion points. It’s important that growing leaders have a solid theology…The concept of calling is an important point there.
Keep ‘em comin Shef… and hey, anytime you need anymore PROFOUND statements I got plenty more slightly inappropriate comments stored up in this trap! You should hear my bird joke!
Hah! Can’t wait to hear the bird joke at Drive! Hope to see you then.
funny how when someone says, “i feel called”, the word “feeling” is almost always used. that should be a big flag right there. in my experience, feelings are at best, suspect, and at worst, completely wrong.
Thanks Rodney, I think that is important point and one to always keep on top of. Feelings are both important and dangerous. Ignore them and spend a bunch of time with your counselor and follow them blindly and, keep a fresh resume. Great stuff!