How to Remain Faithful to God's Calling

Dec 3

“We are God's chosen people, members of a community set apart for God's purposes."

--Mark Labberton, “Called”

The world is desperate for us to live out our calling with humility, gentleness, boldness, and a servant's heart. We are going to make mistakes. We will not always do it right. We may be in positions that are way over our heads, but we're not doing it alone. We go with the Holy Spirit who guides us, equips us, and protects us.

We serve a God who has chosen us. He has a plan, and we can trust him with it. As the Holy Spirit leads us in our calling, we must walk in humility and alertness. As I have sought to grow in my faith and remain faithful to the calling God has invited me to live out, I follow this simple strategy:

1. Read God's Word daily

Reading the Bible is how we learn to hear and recognize God's voice. In order for us to remain faithful to his calling in our lives, we must know our Heavenly Father’s voice and understand his leadings. Relationships come from comfortability and intimacy, which are built over time. By spending time in the Bible daily, we are growing in our intimacy with God. This will help us go in the direction He’s leading us.

"Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light on my path." Psalm 119:105

2. Be obedient to the Holy Spirit's guidance

When we hear the Holy Spirit, we need to be obedient to what we're called to. Learning God's voice helps us grow in relationship with him but being obedient helps us express our faith in action. In the New Testament language, Greek, there are a few different words translated as "obey." One of the words means "to trust." So don't only obey the Holy Spirit's guidance, but trust Him to lead you well. And when we trust, it’s easier for us to obey.

"Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord,' and don't do the things I say?" Luke 6:46

3. Pray constantly

Paul tells us to pray constantly. Pray about everything and in every situation. Prayer doesn't have to be anything structured or perfect. Start thanking God for who he is what he has done for you. Then talk with God about how you feel and what you're struggling with. Share your heart with him. Ask him to guide your steps in all circumstances and protect you as you go about your day. Thank him again. This is just an example. As you can see, it’s like a conversation. The more we pray, the more we strengthen our relationship with God. And as we strengthen our relationship with God, we are more able to hear his voice and understand his calling for us.

"Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in everything; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

4. Seek wise counsel and submit to others to hold me accountable.

Proverbs tells us that our heart is deceitful above all things. It's important for us to not only seek guidance from the Spirit but to have others around us to help us decipher what we're hearing. Make sure you have some spiritual leaders or mature Christians around you whom you trust to walk your journey along with you. Be willing to submit to leadership. Pray for discernment in choosing a few people or at least one person who should be in your life to hold you accountable.

"Without guidance, a people will fall, but with many counselors there is deliverance."

(Proverbs 11:14)

There is no cookie-cutter formula that will make sure you always know God's calling, but these tools help me discern the voice of God and increase my trust his plans. I hope they help you as well!

Onward, my friend.

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