It is not easy to hear the call of God. Think about God’s way with Elijah (1 Kings 19). God is not where we think he is. He does not call us in the ways we imagine or expect or to the places we expect. When God calls us, he calls us to his work, to join him in a work he has already begun.
Calls come at the intersection of our gifts, opportunities, and passion. God calls us clearly, but we are not always tuned to hear. I am thinking about four characteristics of God’s calling.
Calls are certain, they can be heard by those who listen. The ability to hear the call is not always immediate. God touches us, brings us to where we are, specifically selects us for what he calls us to do in the places he calls us to act.
Calls are confirmed. God doesn’t leave us in the dark. Calls are verified, most often by friends, congregations, opportunities, open doors. God provides the way when we answer his call.
Calls are consistent with our gifts. Calls are either based on the gifts we have or may bring us gifts. Sometimes we are called before all of the gifts are in place. Sometimes God’s call brings the opportunity to develop gifts. God shapes us for our work. Psychological tests are helpful, but they may fail to take into account the gifting of God.
Calls have consequences. Calls allow us to be involved with the work of God according to his will. He will bring to completion the good work he begins in us. God provides the results, but those results are often not in the outward trappings the world wants to use to measure success.