Finding Your True Calling

Ever feel like the “right” way to serve God is a straight shot from high school to ministry school, then straight to the pulpit? Or maybe you feel pressured to claim the title of “prophet,” even though the thought terrifies you? It’s easy to think there’s only one way to be truly dedicated, but what if your calling leads you down a different road entirely?

Let’s be real: true callings often come with a hefty dose of fear and reluctance. The people God chooses often don’t want the job, but they know deep down that disobedience comes with a cost. But here’s the thing: that doesn’t mean everyone who feels a nudge is meant to stand behind a pulpit or deliver earth-shattering prophecies. And for the love of all that is holy, don’t call yourself a label or title you are not! Only God can give you that title. If you’re forcing a fit, it’s probably not from Him.

And here’s a hard truth: if you pursue a calling that isn’t truly yours, you’re setting yourself up for a fall. When you’re not operating in God’s will, you’re relying on your own strength and understanding, and that’s a recipe for burnout, frustration, and ultimately, failure. It’s like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole – it might look good from the outside, but it’s not sustainable.

God uses all kinds of people, with all kinds of backgrounds. A business degree might equip you to manage church finances with wisdom and integrity. A background in social work could give you a deeper understanding of the needs within your community. A career in the arts might allow you to express your faith in ways that resonate with people who wouldn’t normally step foot in a church.

Maybe God wants you to be a light in a field that desperately needs it, bringing your faith and values to a place that wouldn’t otherwise encounter them. Don’t let anyone tell you there’s only one way to serve, or that a “true” calling always looks a certain way. Your unique skills and passions, combined with a heart for God, might just be the perfect recipe for something amazing, even if it’s not what you (or anyone else) expected. The key is to seek His guidance and be open to the path He has specifically designed for you.