God Is Calling – Will You Answer?

Throughout history, pastors and other religious leaders have been at the forefront of significant societal change. Whether it was speaking out against injustice or speaking up for freedom, these men and women bravely placed themselves in peril to bring attention to issues that demanded action.  They believed the cause was greater than their comfort and the price was one they were willing to pay.

The Church and those who lead within the church have always had far greater influence in what happens or does not happen in the world than many recognize.  We see legislative bodies, politicians and those crowned by society as movers and shakers as the ones to credit or blame for life altering decisions.  Whereas these play a role on the big stage called life, they do not own the rights to the production.  God is ultimately in control and His plan has always been to work through His Church and anointed leaders.

I have no doubt my own life and worldview have been shaped by my experiences within the church and my association with its leaders.  I still remember Sunday School teachers and lessons taught to me as a child.  I recall sacred moments I spent with God around an altar of prayer as I responded to an invitation given by my pastor.  I am often reminded of truth preached and taught to me by Godly servants of the Lord that continues to this day to be a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

As a young preacher trying to find my place and fulfill my calling, I will be forever grateful for mentors who invested time and energy in my life.  These leaders spoke into my life, gave me opportunity for involvement and stood by me through my many mistakes.  They were willing to correct me in love yet give me space to be who God was calling me to be.  I have no doubt my blessings in ministry have come from God, but He delivered them to me through some incredibly special people.

God is still calling men and women to do His work in the earth.  He will call some to stand before kings…He will call some to rally the masses…He will call some to eternally impact one…but answering the call and being totally obedient to it will be the single most important decision one will make after conversion.

You would be hard pressed, today, to find a greater need than that of holy, set apart men and women answering the call of God to be His voice, hands and heart to the world.  These conveyors of truth are more than religious figures; they are instruments of the Lord to accomplish the mission He started when He came to this earth as a babe in a manger more than two thousand years ago. The task given to these chosen vessels is from the Lord and its fulfillment is necessary for the will of God to be done in the world.

“For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!” (Romans 10:13-15 NKJV)

What an honor it is to be chosen by the Lord to do His work!  But, over the years, I have watched how everyone does not respond to the call the same way.  From my viewpoint there are three levels of ministry commitment:

Heard the Call.  This person testifies to the call, perhaps is credentialed by an organization, and is content to occasionally share the Gospel.  Without sounding too harsh – they simply include ministry in the many other involvements of their life.  Ministry is not their priority.

Fulfilled by the Call.  This person identifies with the ministry. They are good at it.  The ministry is their world – even their career.  Advancement in rank and position is of utmost importance.  They cannot imagine doing anything else. 

Driven by the Call.  This person may or may not be credentialed.  They may or may not receive a paycheck to do it.  They may or may not receive the recognition they deserve.  But…they are passionate about the work of the Lord – they are never satisfied and are constantly looking for ways to do more – they are hungry for revival and burdened for the lost.  Hearing the Father one day say “well-done” is more important than accolades, positions, or titles.  Pleasing God is all that matters.

I have to say the person who simply has heard the call is going to make minimal impact at best.  The person who is fulfilled by the call will be tempted to operate carnally (doing spiritual business in the flesh) and will find much of his/her work will not stand the test of time.  The person who is driven by the call will be anointed, productive and profitable in the Kingdom.

It is this driven by the call minister of the Gospel God is using today.  This one is developed in the prayer closet, refined in the fires of trial, and empowered by walking in the Spirit.  Their spiritual eyes are open to needs around them and they refuse to look away.  They will not be satisfied until all have heard and the mission has been completed.

I genuinely believe the windows of Heaven are open today – both to hear our prayers and respond with answers.  The Holy Spirit is anointing His servants to accomplish exploits and the fulfillment of His plan.  But…I keep hearing Him say to me, “the open window is for a season.” I believe He is saying if I do not respond, He will move on to someone else.  He is determined to complete His work – with or without me.

With or without me…what a sobering thought.  My Pentecostal heritage will not be enough.  My rank in ministry will not be enough.  My expertise and giftings will not be enough.  All that matters is my active commitment to the call of God. 

All around us the needs are many and the harvest is ripe.   Never has there been greater opportunity to make impact than today – real life changing difference.  The search is on and the call is going forth for vessels to be used in this end-time harvest.  World changers are needed.  You are eligible.  “Here I am, send me” is all you have to say.  When you do it, your world will never be the same.