Called by God or Personal Desire?

Are You Called by the Lord?

The concept of being "called by the Lord" is central to Christian life and ministry. Many believers feel a deep sense of purpose, believing they are called by God to serve in specific ways. However, there is a crucial distinction between someone who desires to be called and someone who is truly called according to the Bible.

This article will explore the differences between these two scenarios, using biblical examples to highlight how true spiritual calling differs from personal ambition.

Difference Between Personal Desire and Divine Calling

Personal Desire: A Natural Human Longing

It is natural for people to seek purpose and meaning in their lives, and for many Christians, this desire manifests as a longing to be called by God for a specific mission. Personal desire often stems from a sincere wish to serve God, be involved in ministry, or have a significant impact on others' lives. However, personal desire alone does not equate to a divine calling.

The Bible acknowledges human ambition but warns against confusing it with God’s will. In James 4:3, we read, “You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures.” This verse highlights the danger of pursuing something out of self-interest rather than divine leading.

True Divine Calling: A Sovereign Act of God

A true divine calling, as depicted in the Bible, is an invitation from God to serve in a specific role or mission that aligns with His greater plan. This calling is not based on personal ambition or desire but is initiated by God and confirmed through various means, including prayer, Scripture, and the witness of the Holy Spirit.

The Apostle Paul, for example, speaks about his calling in Galatians 1:15-16: “But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles…” Paul’s calling was not something he sought after but something God initiated, revealing His purpose for Paul’s life.

Characteristics of Someone Who Desires to Be Called

Motivated by Personal Ambition

Someone who desires to be called by the Lord may be driven by personal ambition, the need for recognition, or the desire for spiritual status. This person may genuinely want to do good, but their motivation can be rooted in self-centeredness rather than a humble submission to God’s will.

For instance, in Matthew 20:20-21, we see the mother of James and John asking Jesus to grant her sons the highest places of honor in His kingdom. This request, though well-intentioned, reveals a desire for status and recognition rather than a true understanding of divine calling.

Lack of Endurance in Trials

When a person is motivated primarily by personal desire, they may struggle to endure the trials and challenges that come with ministry. Without a true calling from God, their commitment may waver when faced with opposition, hardship, or a lack of recognition.

Jesus warned of this in the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:20-21).

The seed sown on rocky ground represents those who receive the word with joy but fall away when trouble or persecution arises because they have no root. A true calling from God is often tested by trials, and those who are merely self-called may falter under such pressure.

Seeking Validation from Others

A person who desires to be called may seek constant validation from others to confirm their supposed calling. They may be more concerned with what others think or how they are perceived than with faithfully carrying out God’s will. This can lead to an overemphasis on external appearances and achievements rather than a focus on spiritual growth and obedience to God.

In contrast, those truly called by God often find their affirmation in their relationship with Him, not in the approval of others. As Paul wrote in Galatians 1:10, “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”

Characteristics of Someone Truly Called by the Lord

Clear Divine Initiation and Confirmation

A person truly called by the Lord experiences a clear sense of divine initiation. This calling is often confirmed through prayer, Scripture, and the inner witness of the Holy Spirit. Additionally, it may be affirmed by the spiritual community, providing a strong sense of direction and purpose.

Moses’ calling at the burning bush (Exodus 3) is a classic example. Moses did not seek out this role; rather, God called him, despite Moses’ initial reluctance. God confirmed the calling through miraculous signs and clear instruction, showing that Moses was divinely chosen for the task.

Humble Acceptance of God’s Will

Those truly called by God demonstrate a humble acceptance of His will, even when it is difficult or contrary to their personal desires. They are willing to sacrifice their own plans and ambitions to follow God’s leading, trusting that His purpose is greater than their own.

The prophet Isaiah exemplifies this in Isaiah 6:8, when he responds to God’s call with, “Here am I. Send me!” Despite the challenges ahead, Isaiah’s willingness to serve reflects a heart aligned with God’s will, not personal ambition.

Endurance and Faithfulness in Trials

A true calling from God equips a person with the endurance to persevere through trials and challenges. They are sustained by God’s grace and the conviction that they are fulfilling His purpose. Their faithfulness is not dependent on external success or recognition but on obedience to God.

The Apostle Paul’s ministry is a powerful example of this. Despite facing persecution, imprisonment, and countless hardships, Paul remained steadfast in his mission, driven by his divine calling. As he wrote in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”

Bearing Spiritual Fruit

A genuine divine calling is often evidenced by the spiritual fruit that results from one’s ministry. Jesus taught that true followers would be recognized by their fruit (Matthew 7:16-20). This fruit includes not only successful outcomes in ministry but also the spiritual growth and maturity of the individual and those they serve.

Someone truly called by God will display the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) in their character and ministry, reflecting God’s work in their life.

Discerning Between Desire and Divine Calling

Understanding the difference between personal desire and divine calling is crucial for anyone seeking to serve God. While personal desire can lead to noble aspirations, it is only through a true calling from God that one can fully align with His purpose and endure the challenges of ministry.

The Bible provides clear examples of individuals who were called by God, not by their own ambition, and who were equipped and sustained by His power. Those who are truly called by the Lord will exhibit humility, endurance, and a focus on bearing spiritual fruit, reflecting the divine origin of their mission.

For those discerning a calling, it is essential to seek God’s confirmation through prayer, Scripture, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, rather than relying solely on personal desire or external validation. True calling is a sovereign act of God, and it is only through His grace that we can faithfully fulfill the purposes He has set before us.