God's Calling

 

I was in this exact location and looking at those mountains across the valley when I heard God's calling on my life as a teenager. It is one of the very few times in my life when I clearly heard God speaking to me. 

The other was in college as a group of us were traveling out of New York City. Every Friday night we would go into the city to work with a local church. On this particular night, we were driving through the city and it was quiet in the van. As I watched the lights in the apartments, I heard Him confirm again His call on my life to go and share Good News with those who didn't know Him. 

And so I followed that call, feeling very inadequate and not always knowing where I was going. Dan and and I were walking yesterday and I mentioned to him that all of our experiences and the things we've learned along the way prepare us for the next place and position. I feel as if much of what I am doing now wouldn't have been possible without all those previous experiences and places, good and bad. 

I'm reading through Jeremiah and am in chapter one and reading about Jeremiah's calling. There are some lessons we can learn about God's calling on our life from the opening chapter. 

God chooses us before we are born for a unique purpose. He shapes us and molds us into women and men that can be used by Him. He shapes us and gives us the personality and gifts to complete the calling. God sets us apart in order to accomplish the purpose He has for us and places us in the exact moment and time in history to fulfil that purpose. God's call on our lives accomplishes more and is broader than we can ever imagine.

And like so many who went before him, Jeremiah felt inadequate and unready for the calling that was being given. I feel like that often and I'm sure you do too.

Jeremiah 1:6-8 ~

But I protested, “Oh no, Lord, God! Look, I don’t know how to speak since I am only a youth.”

Then the Lord said to me:

Do not say, “I am only a youth,”

for you will go to everyone I send you to

and speak whatever I tell you.

Do not be afraid of anyone,

for I will be with you to deliver you.

This is the Lord’s declaration.

We measure our inadequacies against the task and feel as if there is no way we can handle it. And yet, we forget one piece of this puzzle. The God who calls will also provide everything needed to do the task.

God equips. He provides you with the strength, resources, ability and energy to do what He is calling you to. You don't need to fear.

God walks beside you. You are not alone as you journey into the calling He has given you. You don't have to do it in your own strength. God is with you each step of the way.

God protects you. You will more than likely face obstacles and pitfalls along the way. But you don't have to give way to fear and anxiety. The Lord is your protector and shield. You are not walking defenseless.

God's calling is unique for each one and yet, the similarity is that whoever receives God's calling will be equipped to do the job.

I'm thankful for the calling I received close to 45 years ago. I'm also thankful for the insight that comes with age when I can look back and see how all the pieces are fitting together for this moment in time.

Trust the Lord as you follow wherever He leads.