Calling: An Epilogue
The previous four posts in this blog explained the process of calling and provided practical guidance for navigating it. I want to conclude this series by reminding us all that discerning, understanding, and fulfilling God’s calling in our lives is an ongoing process. It is not a one-and-done experience. Abundant life is dependent on remaining connected to the Vine, and living out our calling depends upon following Jesus so closely that we constantly listen for the Spirit’s voice and obey His leading.
In Courage and Calling: Embracing Your God-given Potential, Gordon T. Smith relates that God’s calling tends to shift and grow as we move through various seasons of our lives. Having regular rhythms of listening for God’s ongoing direction in our lives and our days is critical if our calling is to remain fresh as we continue growing throughout life. Just as physical health and spiritual life are not static, so too our calling is a dynamic aspect of God’s work in and through us. I have found that continuing to learn, submitting to God’s direction to engage opportunities to become uncomfortable enough to change, and listening for the Spirit to speak to me about my heart and my service help me to fulfill my calling in every season.
What could you do, today, to pursue fresh guidance from the Spirit? Order a book – and set aside time this week to read it (I recommend Courage and Calling), talk with a trusted friend about your current sense of calling, passions, and fulfillment, or schedule a day to get away to fast and pray. This step does not have to be monumental, but taking a step today is likely to move you closer to pursuing a fresh sense of calling and new abundance in your life.