Am I Called?
Calling. This is a term I feel is heavily used in the Christian world. Oftentimes, I feel like this word is associated specifically with a job or an occupation. I even know some people who simply don’t like this word, and I understand that. It’s over used, it lacks clear definition, and it can become people’s scapegoats to avoid uncomfortability (as they simply did not feel “called” to something disagreeable). However, when I moved to Lincoln Nebraska and was offered the opportunity to work as Art Chapel Director at F Street Neighborhood Church, this is the word that came to mind. I asked myself, “Is God calling me?” This has opened up discussion between myself, my peers, and with God. What is a calling? What does scripture say about calling? How can I determine which is mine? How can I be sure? After reading scriptures and praying, I believe there is still a LOT to learn about this term and its biblical definitions. But I would love to share what I feel God has laid on my heart regarding the topic thus far.
There are plentiful meanings of the word “call”. For example…
-To request the presence of someone
But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” (Genesis 3:9)
Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. (Acts 4:18)
-To pray
…At that time people began to call on the name of the Lord. (Genesis 4:26)
for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13)
-To name something or someone
Now the Lord God had formed out of the ground all the wild animals and all the birds in the sky. He brought them to the man to see what he would name them; and whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name. (Genesis 2:19)
but his mother spoke up and said, “No! He is to be called John.” (Luke 1:60)
We also all share a basic calling…
-To repent
“I have not come to call the righteous, but the sinners to repentance.” (Luke 5:32)
In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. (Acts 17:30)
-To live a holy life
As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. (Ephesians 4:1)
…But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God,who has saved us and called us to a holy life - not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, (2 Timothy 1:8-9)
But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written “Be holy, because I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:15-16)
-To seek Him
God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. (1 Corinthians 1:9)
Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, whom we acknowledge as our apostle and high priest. (Hebrews 3:1)
After looking through these scriptures and praying about this word, I’ve come to this understanding: A calling is not what you do, it’s a way you live your life. We, as children of God, are told to repent, live a holy life, and to seek Jesus. So long as I follow this calling, I live a life filled with purpose.
Would I say I feel God has called me to this ministry in Lincoln, Nebraska? Yes, I do. How can I be sure? I know that I feel His peace and His presence in the place I am today, and that is all the assurance I need.
