What One Thing is God Calling You to DO

Scripture

Our verse for today comes from 1 Corinthians 1:17, ” For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of no effect. “

Background

Paul the Baptist. That just doesn’t sound right, does it? It doesn’t ring true, like it does when we hear John the Baptist. And so it shouldn’t, as Paul reminds us, for he was not sent by God to be a baptizer. In fact, he can pretty much list on one hand the names of those he did baptize. He’s not exactly sure if there were any others, but he is certain that there weren’t many, and that God clearly sent him for another purpose. Let John be the Baptist, Paul was called to be the Preacher. But do you see your calling as clearly in your life as Paul saw it in his? He had no doubts of his mission when he was scouring the countryside looking to imprison as many believers as possible. He had authority from the high courts to round up as many of these apostates as possible. And after God captured his heart, he knew his new mission for the Lord just as plainly. He was to take the good news of Jesus to the lost people of the nations.

Application

But for you, is there a direct path that you see God leading you down? Perhaps what is more clear to you are the paths that He is not leading you down. And that’s ok. God shows us repeatedly that we are a single part of His body, and that the other parts are called for their specific purpose, too. But what we cannot do is stop at knowing what is not our calling. Paul didn’t get a special license plate that reminded everyone that he was not a baptizer. No, he went on to follow the calling that God had placed upon him. Perhaps he did his few baptisms while he was refining the specific mission God placed him on. But he never wavered from the assurance that God had saved him for a reason. Just like He has done for you. Maybe it’s still a little hazy. Maybe you’re trying out a few things to see what sticks. But along the way, don’t let your assurance waver that God has a purpose for you. If you strike something off the list, expect Him to bring along something else until you can see his calling. And when you know where He wants you to be, let Him be glorified through your faithful service.

Charge

As we seek Him today, thank God for those who are consumed with the calling of the Lord on their life. Ask Him to continue to lead your steps down the very path that He wants you to take.