Biblical Leadership: Leaders Born, Made or Called?Sample

6. The Secret in Answering God’s Call

In the last readings, we saw that God still calls today and that those callings may be as uncomfortable for us as they were for Moses, Esther, and many others from Bible times.

But that’s no reason to turn away, is it?

With God on our team, we can ask for all we need and He will provide:

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.  – James 1:5

Also, we are equipped to answer the call, whatever the circumstances:

Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am.  – Philippians 4:13 (MSG)

These verses and many others like them assure us that God’s call will never be too big or too difficult.

However, even so, when you identify and accept God’s call on your life, it can be a fearful thing, can’t it? Like Moses, you may experience hesitation, doubt, and uncertainty. Stepping out of your comfort zone isn’t easy, is it?

Fortunately, God knows who He is calling. He knows both your potential and your limitations. He sees not only the opportunities ahead but also the challenges, threats, and failure points as well.

Just as it was in Bible times, God still calls the “ordinary” person just like you.

So what’s the best way to respond? How can you really step forward in faith, and not worry about what others may think, how you will manage, or even how it will all turn out? The words of Jesus and his brother James, when taken together, reveal the secret. First, check what Jesus says:

Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.  Therefore do not worry about tomorrow…  – Matthew 6:33-34a

So far so good but now look at what James adds to this:

If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.  – James 4:17

You might be thinking. "oh no, here we go." but actually, there’s a hidden message behind these two verses, and that’s this:

As a Christian, you are responsible to answer the call of God – but you are not responsible for the result. 

Don’t miss this. It’s the best news for you today!

Yes, God calls each of us even you but He only calls you to obedience, not for the responsibility of how it all might turn out. This key truth will set you free. 

Now you can listen and discern God’s call with newfound freedom. No worry about how you might do it, what others might think, or even how it will all turn out. You are only called to be obedient, and trust Him for the rest.

Obedience just like Moses, Esther, Samuel, Elisha, Mary, and all the other “ordinary” men and women who have gone before.

As things get difficult (and they will), remember this verse:

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.  – James 1:12

Living in obedience to God’s call is your way to store up treasure in heaven (Matthew 6:20).  Then, whether or not you see any results from whatever you may do, you can expect to hear these very words from Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, at the end of your days:

“Well done, good and faithful servant! … Come and share your master’s happiness!”  – Matthew 25:21

Amen!

Reflection / Application

1. Being called by God is scary stuff. How does the call to just do your best and trust God for the rest change that? 
2. Was there ever an occasion where God may have called you but you chose not to follow? What happened?
3. What might go differently if you focus on being obedient to God’s call without worrying about the result? How would that feel?