What Is a Calling? Biblical Clarity on Purpose, Passion, and Patience

The Bible has much to say about callings. A calling is your purpose or destiny in life. It leads you to a certain area of service. It won’t always come from biblical clarity, but often through prayer, seeking God, or guidance by the Holy Spirit. It may not be in full-time ministry or even in a church. Some people are called to occupations or service roles outside the church.

For example, someone considering advocacy work came across Proverbs 30:9, which says to “plead the cause of the poor and needy.” It gave her a strong inner conviction that God had destined her to become a lawyer.

Biblical Examples

In some cases in the Bible, God gives clear direction on people’s purpose or calling. God called Moses from a burning bush, appointing him to deliver the Hebrews out of bondage. In Jeremiah 1:5, God tells Jeremiah, “Before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” So Jeremiah knew what he was called to do.

Others, such as Paul, were also divinely summoned by God. After Paul was converted, God spoke to a man named Ananais, saying that Paul “is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel.”

A Calling for All

God calls believers to serve in ministry gifts, such as pastor, teacher, or evangelist. The word minister means servant, so you don’t have to stand behind a pulpit to serve. You may be a daycare worker, usher, choir member, or parking lot attendant. These are all opportunities to serve in the local church.

God calls all believers to support the work of the Kingdom of God. In Hebrews 10:25, they are called to assemble. Believers are called to read, study, and pray to develop a deeper relationship with God. They are called to walk in love, faith, and peace with others. They are called to exemplify Christ on earth. This is biblical clarity on our calling as believers to live each day by honoring God.

Passion for Purpose

In Jeremiah 29:11, God tells Jeremiah expressly that His thoughts or “plans” toward him were good. God has a purpose or calling for everyone. It may not be with biblical clarity, but if you seek, you will find. Your interests, talents, and others’ needs should stir your faith to seek clarity and direction. Your calling will involve passion. It will be something you’re excited about.

You won’t be able to ignore it. Jeremiah became discouraged and wanted to stop prophesying, but said God’s word was “like a burning fire shut up” in his bones. In 1 Corinthians 9:16, Paul’s passion for his calling leads him to say that he would be miserable if he didn’t preach the gospel.

Patience in Waiting

Paul directs believers in Romans 12:7 to wait on their calling.  In other words, first receive proper preparation and training. David was anointed to be king 20 years before he sat on the throne. It took Moses 40 years of preparation to become the leader of God’s people. Joseph was thirty when the dream God gave him at seventeen came to fruition.

In the meantime, Ecclesiastes 9:10 gives you biblical clarity to do whatever your hands find to do with all your might. John Maxwell said, “You never rise above the limitations of your character.” Maturity and character building take time. You’re not guaranteed everyone’s approval, but when your character is steady, you’ll be above reproach.

Paul told Timothy, a young pastor, not to let anyone despise his youth, but to be an example to believers in righteous living.

Final Thoughts

God calls people to numerous vocations. God has a calling for everyone, whether it be in ministry or the secular world. He calls fishermen, politicians, nurses, writers, actors, and every occupation imaginable for many reasons, but ultimately to bring glory to His kingdom. God’s calling is purposeful. His purpose is always pure, righteous, and good. He often puts people in dark places to usher in His light.

You may not have biblical clarity on your calling, but it will be your passion, and if you wait on it with patience, it will be revealed. Then, like Moses, Jeremiah, David, Paul, and so many others, you will walk in your calling.