One of the most common questions for believers is, “What is my purpose?” This question resonates with each of us as we seek to live lives that matter, lives that reflect God’s heart and bring glory to His name. The journey of discovering and walking in our calling is a path full of faith, obedience, and a willingness to trust God’s guidance. At the Mary Banks Global Training Center, we believe that every believer has a unique calling designed by God, and it’s our mission to help you understand and embrace it.
In this article, we’ll explore the meaning of a divine calling, practical steps to discovering it, and the ways you can walk in your purpose with confidence and dedication.
What Does It Mean to Have a Calling?
In Christian terms, a “calling” is more than just a career or a life goal; it is a divine purpose established by God. Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” This scripture reminds us that God has prepared specific works for each of us. Your calling is the unique way God wants to work through you to build His Kingdom.
Your calling may manifest in various forms—it might be a call to ministry, teaching, hospitality, or evangelism, or it could be a calling to serve in the business world, healthcare, or education. Regardless of the form it takes, every calling is sacred and valuable in God’s eyes. Remember, God does not call us to all do the same thing; He calls us to be faithful with the gifts, talents, and opportunities He has given us.
Step 1: Seek God in Prayer
The first step to discovering your calling is seeking God in prayer. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” When we come before God with a surrendered heart, seeking His will above our own, He reveals the path He wants us to take.
Spend time in prayer, asking God to open your heart and mind to His purpose for you. This might not happen overnight, but as you continue to seek Him, He will begin to show you glimpses of the path He has prepared for you. Listen for His voice, remain sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit, and be open to the unexpected ways He might speak to you.
Step 2: Study the Word of God
God often reveals His purpose for us through His Word. By studying the Bible, we gain a clearer understanding of God’s desires for His people and the principles that guide us in fulfilling our calling. For example, passages like Matthew 28:19-20 remind us of the Great Commission and the importance of making disciples. Scripture also teaches us about the diversity of gifts within the Body of Christ, as seen in Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12.
Take time to explore the stories of individuals whom God called for specific purposes—Moses, David, Esther, Paul, and many others. These stories serve as a reminder that God calls ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. The more you immerse yourself in the Word, the more clarity you’ll gain about God’s heart and the unique way He may want to use you in His Kingdom.
Step 3: Reflect on Your Gifts and Passions
God often uses our unique gifts, talents, and passions to guide us toward our calling. Psalm 139:14 says, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Each of us has been uniquely crafted by God, with specific strengths and passions that align with His purpose for our lives.
Take time to reflect on the things you’re passionate about. What activities make you feel most alive? What skills and talents come naturally to you? These are often clues to your calling. When we combine our God-given gifts with a heart surrendered to His will, we become effective vessels for His work.
Consider asking friends, mentors, or spiritual leaders for input—they may see strengths in you that you haven’t recognized yourself. Often, others can confirm and affirm the gifts God has placed within us, providing valuable insight into how we might serve in His Kingdom.
Step 4: Be Willing to Serve
Sometimes, the best way to discover our calling is by stepping out and serving where there’s a need. Matthew 23:11 says, “The greatest among you will be your servant.” Serving allows us to experience different areas of ministry and develop a heart for the work God is doing in the lives of others.
As you serve, you may begin to feel a specific burden or a growing sense of fulfillment in a particular area. This can be God’s way of leading you toward your calling. The key is to approach each opportunity with humility and a willingness to serve wherever God needs you.
Don’t be discouraged if the tasks seem small or insignificant at first; God often uses these experiences to shape our character and prepare us for greater responsibilities. When we are faithful with the little things, He entrusts us with more (Luke 16:10).
Step 5: Take Steps of Faith
When God calls us, He often leads us to step outside of our comfort zones. Moses didn’t feel ready to lead the Israelites, and Gideon doubted his own ability to deliver Israel from its enemies. However, both of these men took steps of faith, trusting that God would provide the strength and resources they needed.
Walking in your calling requires courage and faith. There may be moments of doubt, and you may feel unqualified or unsure. But remember, God doesn’t call the equipped; He equips the called. Trust in His power, lean on His strength, and take bold steps forward as He leads you. Each step of faith brings you closer to fulfilling the purpose He has placed on your life.
Step 6: Be Patient and Persevere
Discovering and walking in your calling is often a journey rather than a one-time revelation. It requires patience, perseverance, and a deep trust in God’s timing. Sometimes, we may feel like we’re moving in circles, but God uses these moments to refine us and prepare us for what lies ahead.
In James 1:4, we’re encouraged to “let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” God’s timing is perfect, and His process is purposeful. As you wait, continue to seek Him, grow in your relationship with Him, and remain faithful in the small things. When the time is right, He will open doors and provide opportunities for you to walk fully in your calling.
Walking in Your Calling: A Lifelong Journey
Walking in your calling is not a destination; it’s a lifelong journey. It involves continually seeking God’s guidance, growing in faith, and being willing to adapt as He leads. Your calling may evolve over time, and God may bring you into different seasons of ministry and service. The key is to stay connected to Him, trusting that He will guide each step of your path.
At the Mary Banks Global Training Center, we are here to support you on this journey. Whether you’re just beginning to explore your calling or are looking for deeper training to fulfill it, we provide resources, courses, and a community of believers to help you grow in faith and purpose.
Remember, you are called by God for a reason. Embrace that calling, pursue it with all your heart, and trust that He will use your life to bring glory to His name. As you walk in your calling, you’ll not only experience a life of fulfillment but also become a beacon of His love and grace to the world.
