Recently, I had the privilege of being a facilitator/instructor at the Gold Hill Missionary Baptist Association’s “Bible Institute” in Spindale, NC. This annual three day event provides focused instruction on topics of interest for member churches. My seminar was entitled “What is My Calling?”
In an effort to make my seminars helpful and relevant to attendees, I provide them with an opportunity to submit questions that they would like me to address. One question submitted reflects a common challenge many are faced with as they pursue what God has set before them: “Why is it that those closest to us (family and friends) don’t seem to understand or doubt what we feel called to do?”
I believe loved ones have our best interests at heart when expressing reservations. They want to make sure we have “counted the cost” and are not stepping out on a whim. I always recommend seeking godly counsel and input from those closest to you. Any additional perspective they can provide can be helpful. However, when you know you have heard from God remember that you are seeking advice, not affirmation. Support of family and friends is not a prerequisite for obeying God.
Several years ago, the Lord showed me that those who receive the call hear it by faith. Those who weren’t present at our “burning bush,” must see it by our works. As we walk out what God has instructed us to do, others will see the fruit of our obedience (and eventually benefit from it). Consider the following scripture from Exodus 3:11-12: “And Moses said unto God, Who am I that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt? And he said, Certainly I will be with thee: and this shall be a token (sign) unto thee, that I have sent thee: When thou hast brought forth the people out of Egypt, ye shall serve God upon this mountain.” I believe there are a couple of things we can derive from this text:
1. We have to be willing to trust God even when we have doubts concerning ourselves [who am I …].
2. God expects us to receive our call as already done [when you have brought forth the children of Israel… (past tense)]
3. God says that bringing them out was Moses’ sign, not the signs and wonders that would accompany the deliverance.
God tells Moses you will know I told you to do it (deliver the children of Israel) when it’s done. Wow! God goes on to say that “hearers” (Pharaoh) would not listen to him, but that God would demonstrate He was with Moses by signs and wonders.
Hearing God’s voice should be sign enough for us. Just as the signs and wonders were witnessed by Pharaoh, the Egyptians, and the children of Israel, we need to know that the fruit of our obedience to the call will be witnessed by those who doubt us initially. In the mean time, step out on the Word from the Lord. In due season, God will affirm you before your friends and family. Go forth in ministry; start that business; be a stay at home Mom; home school your children; whatever God is saying- just do it!
Grace and Peace!
1 comment:
To Common Challenge:
If God said to do something or gave us a vision-by faith we act on it..We don't need the approval of the family (it would be nice), but God did not talk to all of them,just you...Be careful who we tell about what God has told us. Even in family and friends there are doubters! Stay in the presence of God and Holy Spirit seeking first his Kingdom and everyone will see the difference in you and the calling that God birthed in your heart....Just be encouraged God will bring All things to pass..
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