In what ways can you discern God's calling in your own life today? Galatians 1:15 — the foundation of calling “But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by His grace, was pleased …” • God Himself initiates the call. • The call is rooted in His purpose, not human merit. • It begins before birth and unfolds by grace. principles for discerning your calling today • Scripture first – Psalm 119:105: God’s Word lights the path. – 2 Timothy 3:16–17: equips for “every good work.” • Inner witness of the Spirit – Romans 8:16: the Spirit testifies with our spirit. – Colossians 3:15: let Christ’s peace rule your heart; His peace functions as an umpire. • God-given desires and gifts – Philippians 2:13: He works in you “to will and to act.” – 1 Peter 4:10: use the gifts received “to serve one another.” • Providential opportunities – Revelation 3:8: He opens doors no one can shut. – Acts 16:6-10: the Spirit redirected Paul by closing and opening routes. • Confirmation through the body of Christ – Acts 13:1-3: the church at Antioch recognized Paul’s call. – Proverbs 11:14: there is safety in a multitude of counselors. • Alignment with the Great Commission – Matthew 28:18-20: every call ultimately advances the gospel. • Fruit that remains – John 15:5-8: abiding in Christ produces lasting fruit, a clear sign you are in step with His purpose. helpful steps to put these principles into practice 1. Daily intake of Scripture—listen for recurring themes or verses the Spirit impresses. 2. Ask the Spirit to search and refine motives (Psalm 139:23-24). 3. List desires, abilities, and burdens that persist over time. 4. Note doors God seems to open or close and respond promptly. 5. Seek mature believers who know you well for honest feedback. 6. Evaluate whether pursuits are bearing spiritual fruit and promoting Christ’s name. 7. Stay flexible; God may redirect just as He did with Paul. encouraging companion verses • Jeremiah 1:5 — set apart before birth. • Ephesians 2:10 — created for good works prepared in advance. • Psalm 32:8 — He instructs and teaches in the way you should go. • Romans 12:1-2 — discern His good, pleasing, perfect will by a renewed mind. • John 10:27 — His sheep hear His voice and follow. walking forward with confidence Because God calls by grace and equips by His Spirit, you can move ahead assured that when your steps honor His Word, rely on His power, and bear lasting fruit, you are walking in the calling He conceived for you “from your mother’s womb.” |
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