The fact that God initiates His work in us gives us fantastic insight into how He works. The Lord’s initiation tells me how much He loves me, wants to draw me to faith, and then works through me to build His kingdom.
When I was thirty-six years old, the Lord began to work in my heart to change professions and become a pastor. The call I experienced from the Lord did not begin with me, but God pursued me daily, leading me to His plan for my life. You may have experienced a similar time when the Lord sought you.
The Lord pursues us to come to faith, confess our sins, and change our direction in life. Jesus tells us that the believers in Jesus hear His voice and follow Him. John 10:27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. [1]
The Lord Called Abram
When the Lord called Abram, he was not the person of faith he would become. Joshua 24:2 Joshua said to the people, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: Long ago your ancestors, including Terah, the father of Abraham and Nahor, lived beyond the Euphrates River, and they worshiped other gods.[2]
God’s mercy and grace called Abram out of where he was to set him on a new path in life. This is also what the Lord does to us when he calls us. Genesis 12:1The Lord had said to Abram, “Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s family, and go to the land that I will show you. 2 I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others. 3 I will bless those who bless you and curse those who treat you with contempt. All the families on earth will be blessed through you.” [3]
God Calls Us to Live a Life of Purpose
God calls us to a life of faith not to fulfill our desires but His plan for us. The road the Lord calls us to walk down is countercultural to the world. His call of faith brings eternal life, peace, and security. Ephesians 4:1Therefore, I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. 2 Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.[4]
As the Lord calls us, the most important thing is not what He is calling us to accomplish but our obedience to God. The work the Lord has prepared for us may be difficult, but we can be assured that the Lord is with us. Are you ready to respond to the Lord’s call like Abram and follow the Good Shepherd where He wants to lead you?
To learn how God initiates His work in us, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/beginnings-promise
[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.