Called by God...

[Morgaine1205]

Have you ever thought that you were being called by God for something, but you couldn't discern what that something was? What did you do? Or if you knew what you were being called to do, how clear was that calling?

[HeatherJay]

I've felt called by God to many different things.

"Being called" is something you'll hear quite often in the Church of the Nazarene...whether it's to preach, to be a missionary, to work with children, or even to be a volunteer janitor for the church, we believe that these are all examples of things that God calls some of us toward.

From my own experience, if God is calling me toward something (like a particular ministry), it's not something that I can just walk away from...it's something that just will not leave me alone until I've answered that call.

There have also been a few times in my life where I've heard what I can only describe as, literally, "the voice of God." Those times have been so clear that it's left no doubt what I need to do in that particular moment.

I think it's great that you recognize that God is calling you toward something...I'd say that your best option is to pray for clarity. Pray that the Lord would show you His will so clearly that you'll have no doubt in your mind what it is that He has for you.

:hug:

[overnight]

Have you ever thought that you were being called by God for something, but you couldn't discern what that something was? What did you do? Or if you knew what you were being called to do, how clear was that calling?

Discerning what God has for you can be difficult. I think the first thing I would do is pray that God make clear to you what it is that he is calling you toward. I would do that each day. Secound I would talk to my pastor. Pastors are very good at helping in areas of discerment and at the very least could tell you where there are opportunities in our church so that perhaps you could get into one of those ministries and find out that, that is what God is calling you toward. Third, if you have any ideas abot what it might be start talking to others who do that particular thing so that you can find out some of what the ministry involves. Forth, and finally, just be open to the spirit you never know when God will show you his will and what the calling is. I will pray that God make obvious what he is calling you to do. :prayer:

[Morgaine1205]

Thank you so much for both of your answers! I will continue praying, and I hadn't thought of talking to my pastor - great suggestion. Thank you both again, and God bless!

[silentpoet]

I hate the obsessive nature of inspiration. Especially when the best ideas come right when I need to sleep. I think like others have said a call is kind of overwhelming for lack of a better word. If you are not sure, take steps that you can be sure of or see as a possibility. If it does work out great then you may be on to something. But also be aware of the fact God can call us into situations just to teach us something, and sometimes that is just that we are not supposed to be there.

I would just take steps towards what you see as your call. I am not one for the Gideon test to find out, but I do know those who are pretty big on it. It just never worked for me. There are some spiritual gift inventory tests available. One book I can reccomend is Made To Count by Seccord(I think is it). It covers alot of stuff about God's calling and His purpose for our lives.

[Onesimus85]

Have you ever thought that you were being called by God for something, but you couldn't discern what that something was? What did you do? Or if you knew what you were being called to do, how clear was that calling?
You are not alone. I have also experienced this dilemma. Abraham was called by God to leave his hometown and had no idea what would be waiting for him at his destination. Thank goodness we are required to understand God's motives. However, we are called to obey Him. Follow God, He'll reveal His plan in His time.