If you had to choose a person to be a mighty messenger of God, a shoe salesman probably would not be the first choice. However, this was D.L. Moody, and today he is still renown for how he pursued the call of God and the millions of lives impacted. It is not always an easy journey though; to pursue God is to risk and to sacrifice.
Ordinary Pursuit
Like D.L. Moody, how do every day people pursue the call to ministry? There are several questions that can help refine your pursuit.
- What is holding you back? If we are being honest with ourselves, often we are the main ones speaking doubt to ourselves. Others trust us and doors are open, but we tend to hold back because of fear- fear of the unknown, fear of rejection, fear of failure, etc. Identify your barriers today. What lies are stopping you?
- What is your first love? D.L. Moody knew that Jesus’ great love had transformed his life, and he had an unspeakable burden to invite others into this joyful life. In all the pressure of ministry work, he kept this love forefront. Take time to remember your original first love experience with Jesus that put you on this path. It may not remove the burdens, but it helps you to remember who is carrying them alongside you. Carve out intentional time for renewal.
- Where do you need accountability? The beauty of Christian life is that our callings are lived out in community. We all have our strengths and weaknesses, and we need the Body to function fully and humbly. Review how you are pursuing your calling- are there areas where you need help or where you need to be challenged? Identify these things and find someone who can keep you accountable and provide greater insight. Growth occurs best when we are humble enough to allow others in to our lives.
Rest in Truth
Micah 6:8 says “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”
We can over-complicate calling as we compare ourselves to others’ successes, so at the end of the day, it is important to go back to the Word. God has called us all to this common theme of walking with Him. Each story is different, but they each should point back to the glory of God.
D.L. Moody said, “God is working, not we. Oh that we would keep ourselves down in the dust and everyone of us would get out of the way, and let God work.”
As you pursue your own calling in Christ, be encouraged that ultimately it is God’s work.