Biblical Leadership: Leaders Born, Made or Called?نموونە

3. The Calling of God in Bible Times

In the last readings, we saw each of us has a responsibility to engage with the gifts and opportunities that God may present to us, as part of building up our leadership skills.

So far, so good. But how do we know which opportunities to follow, where to apply ourselves, and what God might be calling us to do? 

After all, if God has equipped each of us with a unique set of gifts, talents, and opportunities, then He’s probably got a plan to fit each one of us as well, right? And, if that’s true, how do I know what God’s plan for me and my working life might be?

To answer these questions, let’s first look at how God called ordinary men & women into service for His Kingdom back in Bible times, and how that might apply to us today.

First of all, take a moment to think of a person called by God in the Bible,  any “regular” man or woman, just like you.

Maybe the story of Moses comes to mind. An ordinary shepherd out in the fields taking care of the sheep, when God calls to him out of a burning bush (Exodus 3:1-10).

Or maybe you thought of the teenage girl, Mary, to whom God sends an angel, telling her that she will be the mother of Jesus (Luke 1:26-38).

Moses and Mary. Two very ordinary persons, just going about their lives, until God speaks to them, rather directly.

Although God spoke directly to a number of people in the Bible, He also brought his message to those He wanted to call through others. Think of David or Elisha both going about their daily work when God sends another person to them with a message: Samuel to anoint David (1 Samuel 16:4-13), or Elijah to recruit Elisha (1 Kings 19:19-21). 

God’s call was not always so vocal. Sometimes, nobody actually spoke the word of God, but things just sort of happened, bringing the person to be used by God to a time & place where he or she then had to decide how to respond.

A classic example of this is Esther. A wicked politician arranges for the destruction of the Jews (Esther 3:8-12) while a beautiful young Jewish girl (Esther) is living a life of luxury as the newest queen in the palace. Her guardian/cousin sends her this message, which speaks to all of us, even today:

“Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape… who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”  – Esther 4:13-14

Of the various types of “callings” we see in the Bible, it is most often this “time and place” arrangement that speaks to us today.

Check these questions to see if God may be calling you through a “time and place” arrangement today:

• Why is a certain opportunity now facing you?
• Why have you been given resources you now hold?
• Why are you in the leadership position you are in?

As you look for the calling of God, you might not come across an angel or a burning bush. You might also not be approached by someone claiming to have a message from God Himself but you may quite likely be in a certain situation, with a set of gifts, talents, and opportunities before you.

In the next reading, we’ll see how to interpret your situation to see what God may be calling you to do.

Remember, today as in Bible times, God calls ordinary people just like you to help accomplish His purposes.

And, as a leader, it is your responsibility to be aware of and in tune with that calling.

Reflection / Application

1. Do you think that God has a plan for each of us? Is He still calling ordinary people like you to exercise their leadership skills for His purposes? 

2. Many of the examples we see in the Bible like Moses, David, Esther, and others involve ordinary people being called to fulfill a leadership role that is in line with God’s will. Can you see how God’s calling is for you also, and not just for pastors or missionaries?

3. Take a moment to jot down whatever thoughts come to mind regarding how God may be directing your path, and what He may be calling you to do in the coming months.