"Calling"

The following devotional is a transformational story that occurred 15 years ago:

The light came on in my husband’s mind first as the two of us sat side by side listening at a ministry orientation. On the handout we both held on our laps, he scrawled, “I feel the call!” circling the words then nudging me to glance down at it. I knew his heart was tender and as nice as that was, I needed to know for myself as well. The speaker kept talking, clicking through a PowerPoint presentation. A few minutes went by when all of a sudden, the light came on in my mind, almost like someone bursting in at the door I hadn’t quite decided to open. It was as though a switch had been flipped and it caught my breath with suddenness and clarity. Immediately, I reached for my pen, responding with a written testimony that I felt it too. That silent agreement in partnership was radical and vital for future ministry the two of us would enter. It dissolved fear, hesitancy, presuppositions, and even the idea of extra weight we would have to bear. The Lord took all of that away when each of us sensed His calling and responded in faith by acknowledging His work in us. I have heard many over the years comment about how nice it would be to just know, to just feel that clear calling or “see the light” and path laid out in front. I know it can be rare. In our case, it was unusual and special that God graciously spoke to both of us almost simultaneously, leaving us with zero doubt as we walked forward in our calling. I have known women who wait and wonder why God hasn’t given them a strong Christian husband to do ministry with. Despite all the variables, every situation is fully known by our Lord and his desire is to do the work he specifically calls each of us to. Our individual willingness, trust, and obedience are key. His power is always more than sufficient, partnering with us for every task ahead. "Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it." 1 Thessalonians 5:24