A NOTE ON SPECIFIC CALLS

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Though we read about specific callings, it’s wise to acknowledge that while the call might be specific and clear, the outworking of it, how it unfolds and develops, is rarely straightforward.

Take Paul the apostle, for example. He was called to “be a light to the Gentiles” (Acts 13:47). But what did this look like practically in his life? Not one role or location but many. Over the course of his life, he was an evangelist, a church planter, an author, a teacher, a travelling itinerant preacher, a tent-maker, and a theologian. He had a specific calling, but not a specific outworking.

Another point to remember is that calling isn’t just about finding the one right task or perfect way to serve God. It’s about being available for God’s mission. It’s about cultivating a heart that is willing to follow where the Holy Spirit is leading. It’s about responding to what Jesus is doing in the moment and joining in on his plan of sharing hope and redemption with others.

There are times when a specific calling serves as a wonderful anchor for our soul. Clarity around our calling will help us persevere through challenging situations. But God is always doing new things. There are times when God will expand our idea and even the very nature of our specific calling. Why? Because God wants to open our heart to explore new options and increase our vision to consider different opportunities and ministry appointments. Again, think about Paul – he had a specific calling, but not a specific outworking.

“We cannot have a fixed mindset – calling is not static. It is about being available for God.”