The Discovery: Exploring God’s Call On Your Life Sample

“The Minister: When do I start?”

When do you start? Right now!

Some people think they have to finish high school, college, or even seminary before they can begin carrying out an assignment from God. This is not necessarily true. Some assignments require a certain level of education and training in order to be done properly, and some don’t. Even if a believer does need education and training to eventually carry out his/her future assignment, a call to the ministry of Jesus Christ must never be put on hold.

Even if you find yourself in transition, take advantage of every opportunity God gives you to be used by Him. That’s not to say that every opportunity is from God, but those that God lays on your heart and seem to line up with your makeup and direction shouldn’t be pushed aside in anticipation of something that may come later.

After Paul’s calling and conversion, the Bible says that he began to preach immediately. Now, the idea of someone preaching immediately following a salvation experience might make some people nervous. New Christians have much to learn and should assume roles of weighty responsibility with caution and much prayer. In fact, the Bible warns believers about new converts assuming leadership roles within the Body (1Timothy 3:6).

But, notice what Paul preached. He preached that Jesus is the Son of God. He preached only what he knew to be true by experience and allowed himself to be used as an example of the change that Jesus can make in a person’s life. He did not assume more responsibility than he was ready to handle, but did make himself available to be used by God as he matured. Paul did take time to be trained and equipped for ministry. Although he already knew a lot of Scripture, he spent three years learning and being equipped for ministry (Galatians 1:13-24).

Respond to the following in your journal:

What assignment has God given you? Is it an immediate assignment or something to work toward? What does He have for you right now?

What did you learn through Bible study today?

How were you encouraged? How were you challenged?