Accepted: Who We Really Are and What He Has Given UsSample

Day 10: Ephesians 4:1-16

Each and every one of us is called.

However you describe it, you have a calling, purpose, mantle, and destiny. For what? To complete the work of Jesus on the earth. Remember, the Book of Acts starts with all that Jesus both began to do and teach. Acts then recounts His disciples’ exploits to reach the lost, heal the sick and demonized, and build up His church. The story isn’t finished. It continues with us.

These ministries—apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers—are gifts of the Son. Man or woman, we find our passion and leaning toward one or a combination of these ministry giftings in our lives. Along with our Father’s gifts (Rom. 12:5-8) and gifts of the Spirit (1 Cor. 12:8-10), we discover how God wired us. And we wait on Him for how these gifts play out in our lives. No sideline sitting is allowed.

Make no mistake about it. You, me—we are called.

It doesn’t matter if we wash cars or preach to the multitudes. We are called when we chase little ones around the house or sit in the halls of government. If we have a breath here on planet earth, we are people of purpose and destiny. And in the healing power of the Holy Spirit within us and finding ourselves deeply rooted in Christ’s love, our calling becomes more and more apparent.

With the Holy Spirit’s help, ask yourself what energizes you?

Apostles have a world view and see the big picture. They are the go-getters and often risk-takers that generally don’t focus on details because their vision goes beyond the norm.

Prophets are those who tend to see things as black or white. They have a keen discernment to see what is current and future and a passion that people know what God’s heart is in the moment.

Evangelists have a yearning for those who are lost and need rescue.

Pastors have a shepherd’s heart. They care for, tend, mend, teach, protect, and lead a flock, which might be their family, friends, workplace, or church.

Teachers are those whose drive is to help people to understand. They love breaking down the complicated things and making them easy to be received, learned, and lived.

You are accepted, you have access, you are loved, and you are called.