 Called and ChosenOne woman articulates her calling and advises others on how to think through theirs.
What would you say if someone asked you to state in a few sentences who you are? I wondered if the task was possible when asked to write a short piece on my calling. How could I articulate something so central to my identity—and without sounding presumptuous or egotistical? You can be the judge. As you read, though, bear in mind that one's calling is tied inextricably to one's identity and is not easily stated. Like a diamond, one's character and personality have many different facets. And on the matter of conceit, we know that Discerning my calling continues to be a process of discovery. As I become more of a whole person, the vision of my life's purpose becomes clearer. To put it simply and somewhat generally, a central heart's desire is to help others become stronger, more committed followers of Christ. Professionally, I currently live this out through the pen, editing and working with materials that have a Christ-centered emphasis. Some works are designed to help Christians think deeply; others expose idols of our age; still others are devotional books. At this stage of my life, the sphere of paid work is a central component of my calling. It should be underlined, however, that one's career does not equal one's calling; other aspects may complement or supersede it during different seasons of life. Commit to spending six months thinking and praying specifically about your life purpose. Each day ask the Lord to give you discernment and direction about his plans for you. Ponder and think about your heart's desires. What motivates you? Fascinates you? Moves you? Look back at your life and think of things—activities, awards, projects, and so on—of which you are proud. Is there a connecting factor, motivation, or theme? After praying, waiting on the Lord, keeping a journal, and exploring activities and areas of interest, talk to a trusted two or three others about what you have learned. Tell them the direction in which you would like to head. Ask them if your vision squares with what they know of you. Then listen to their words, asking God to highlight the truth and discard the rest. As God's beloved children we are called and chosen to love and glorify him always. This is our highest purpose; this is our most glorious command. And we follow a Father who loves to lead us down the path to life—the road that will bring him the most glory and us the most fruitfulness, joy, and peace. Excerpted from Regeneration, © 1996 Christianity Today International. For more articles like this, visit www.CTLibrary.com |              |
