One of the hardest mindset shifts I’ve ever had to make has crept into my life over the past 3 years.
I USED TO think along the line of what we often hear in our culture.
“You need to find your calling and pursue it.”
Living according to that philosophy I’ve incessantly wondered if I’m “on track.” I’ve felt like a failure at times because it feels like I’m always missing that REALLY important thing I’m supposed to do.
I won’t deny that there is an idea of “calling” in the Bible. We see it clearly in the lives of many of the heroes in the Bible (Moses is an obvious example. The Apostle Paul is another.). So it follows that God will do that same kind of thing in the lives of SOME people.
SOME people. Definitely not all.
I’ve learned that it’s a mistake to make a pattern for my life out of what God did or does in the lives of others – even biblical figures.
Read that again if you need to. It’s true.
So what’s the alternative? It’s what is reflected in this verse.
Jesus says, “Follow Me.”
- My job is not to ask “How? In what specific way? Through what niche or area of gifting am I to follow?”
- My job is simply to follow – day by day, moment by moment, AS JESUS REVEALS where He’s going.
It’s a relational thing.
It’s an intimate thing that REQUIRES moment by moment connection with the one doing the leading.
I have to watch and listen. I have to truly SEE my daily world and the people in it, instead of passing through on the way to a “greater” destination – somewhere, out there.
It requires an attitude of willingness and humility that compels me to do what Jesus instructs me to do – anytime, in the moment, even if I don’t think it fits my gifting or bent or preferences or sense of “calling.”
And if I’m going to do that, I have to be convinced that His motives are ALWAYS good and right and I have to believe that His wisdom is impeccable.
Even though His instruction to me may at times be uncomfortable or even painful, I’m not shaken because I trust HIM.
The result of this mindset shift?
Now the pressure’s off. I’m not stressing about tomorrow (at least not as much). The expectation that I’m supposed to be doing something “more” with my life is diminishing.
I’m learning to simply walk with my Savior – to listen – and to act as He speaks.
And I’m able to live thankfully, in increasing confidence, and growing peace.
I’d love to hear how this concept resonates with you (or not) in the comments below.