The Call: Parts of a Calling

“A calling is a summons from God to a task that accomplishes His purposes.” There’s a lot of information packed into that sentence. So let’s “unpack” it.

A calling is a summons from God …”
When I was a boy I usually went outside to play after dinner. At dusk mom or dad would call out, “Time to come home.”  They expected me to come right away. When I arrived they gave me a task like “Go take a bath.” In the same way, someday God will summon you. As a believer you know His voice. When you hear it, go to Him in prayer and listen.

“… to a task …”
God has work for you to do – a mission just for you. He’s equipped you with everything you need to accomplish it. Your spiritual gifts play a big part in fulfilling your calling. Whatever the job is, don’t try to figure it out. God doesn’t work that way. He’ll reveal it in His appointed time. Wait for it. It’ll certainly come and will not be late. In the meantime, faithfully serve others.

“… that accomplishes His purposes.”
History is hurtling headlong to the Second Coming of Christ. You have between now and then to accomplish your work. Your assignment falls into one or both of these categories: evangelism and discipleship. In essence, your work is to tell people about salvation and to serve them in love.

Dr. Steve Lake is a retired educator with over 30 years experience in the American public schools. He has served in a variety of position, including teacher, elementary school principal, junior high principal, Associate Superintendent, retired from public education as Superintendent of Schools in Lincolnwood, IL. He has his Bachelors, Masters and Doctor of Education degrees from Northern Illinois University. For the past 25 years Steve has attended and been a member of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington and Northfield, IL. At Willow Creek Steve has taught adult classes on spiritual gifts, life purpose, and spiritual disciplines. He has ministered overseas in Angola, Zambia, Honduras, Germany, and Russia. Steve is co-founder of Designed to Serve, a ministry that equips Christians to live out their unique God-given calling. Steve is married and has two adult children who are married.