In the summer of 2021, following a challenging season the previous year, I began feeling whispers from the Holy Spirit about my God-given calling and purpose in life. Up until that point, I had never truly known. I had questioned my purpose periodically before but never felt as though the answer had been clearly and fully revealed. I knew the fact that I was asking was enough to confirm to me that I hadn’t yet met my calling, as I wouldn’t have had to ask if I knew.
When God began to reveal to me my purpose, I experienced the biggest ah-ha moment ever and was filled with indescribable joy! It took me forty-nine years to figure it out but better late than never! I would have never picked the higher calling of God for my life on my own. Yet, the moment I discovered it, it resonated so deeply within me that I did not think twice about aligning with it. I am amazed at how God orchestrated everything in such a perfect way with regards to who He created me to be, His Divine timing and my life’s journey thus far. As the Bible says:
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.” ~ Jeremiah 1:5 NIV
“Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work.”
~ 2 Timothy 2:21 ESV
God’s calling on my life, in large part, includes sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ and the fullness of God’s goodness with the world through writing and speaking. God has called me to share of His love, mercy, compassion, forgiveness, healing, restoration and redemption because, no matter what, we are all worthy and loved by Him. Likewise, my purpose is to encourage and uplift others to embrace their God-given purpose, for each of us has a purpose and calling of God. As Scripture reveals:
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” ~ Ephesians 2:10 ESV
As I began to walk in my purpose, God revealed to me clues to discovering one’s God-given purpose that He impressed upon my heart to share.
It’s Bigger Than You
God revealed to me that if it is about the individual and not others, it is not His calling or purpose for one’s life. God is not selfish and appreciates broad impact. If you are pursuing something that does not impact others, it is likely not your God-given calling or purpose. It doesn’t mean that it is not a good idea, it is likely just not your God-given purpose. God’s purpose for your life is bigger than you, broader than you can believe and has the potential to impact more people than you can imagine.
Evaluate Your Gifts and Talents
God revealed to me that there are clues to one’s God-given purpose and calling hidden in one’s gifts and talents. We each possess unique gifts and talents from God. For some it may be singing while others may have a knack for numbers. Each of us is uniquely made and the talents that each of us possess is not accidental but intentional by God’s design for His purpose. As the Bible says:
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve. If it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.” ~ Romans 12:6-8 NIV
As I reflect on my purpose and calling, I can see how my gifts and talents support what God is calling me to do. For example, it is amazing that God would call me to write. I have always loved writing and have been told that I write well but could never seem to find my voice regarding about what I should write. Yet, God brought this dormant gift to the forefront in order to carry out my purpose.
Similarly, God has gifted me with the ability to encourage and uplift others. I am the friend that people come to for comfort, to be heard or when insight is needed. It’s no wonder that part of my purpose would include championing others towards pursuit of their God-given purpose and destiny.
Assess your gifts and talents. Are you musically inclined and gifted? Are you the person who always lends a listening ear and an encouraging word to family and friends? Do you love offering instruction and teaching? Do you possess the gift of healing? Clues such as the aforementioned may point to the higher calling on your life from God.
Reflect Upon Your Life’s Journey Thus Far
As I walk in my God-given purpose, I can see clearly that my life’s journey thus far has been preparing me for my purpose. For example, my entire professional career has been in the non-profit arena and my life has been dedicated to the mission and vision of the organization to which I have been employed for almost twenty-eight years. This career path has taught me the true meaning of what it means to serve humbly and make a difference. Service and commitment to making a difference are the heart of who I am and my experiences in various roles have prepared me for this season as I walk in my purpose.
In my thirties, I pursued acting as a new interest. I had never taken an acting class in my life and had no prior experience but thought it would be a fun hobby. I began taking acting classes, secured an agent, began auditioning and was able to book primary roles in television commercials and industrial videos. While I have since pivoted from acting, at this time, to focus on my purpose, this hobby has begun to serve me well as I film social media videos and will serve me well as God prepares me for other speaking opportunities.
Walking in my purpose has shown me how powerfully God has orchestrated so many details in my life in connection with my purpose – planting gifts and talents within me, allowing life experiences to shape and prepare me for my purpose and allowing nothing to be wasted as I carry out my purpose for His glory.
Have you discovered your God-given calling? Are some of your gifts and talents being used in carrying out your purpose? What about your past has prepared you for your calling? I can’t wait to hear more!
In my next blog post, I will share more clues to discovering your God-given purpose. Until then, be well.