Are You Called? - The Wesleyan Church

For the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Rom. 8:28)

Expanded Passage: Romans 8:28

Some have surmised that God is finicky toward folk in that he blesses those who have answered a call to vocational ministry more than he blesses others, who may have a different calling in life. There are at least two responses to such perspectives. First, the idea of God being finicky is nonsense. Good and not-so-good events happen to those serving the Lord as missionaries as well as to those serving as office workers or laborers. The Scripture also reminds us that our Father in heaven “sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous” (Matt. 5:45).

Second, the “calling” in Romans 8:28 refers to those who have been called by God’s Spirit to leave the way of sin and follow the goodness of Jesus, not those called into ministry. The Spirit calls us, convinces us of our sin-filled lifestyle, shows us the transformation that the power of Christ can bring about in us, and leads us in the way of salvation instead of damnation.

Regardless of our vocational calling, all are created to live our lives at one with God through the substitutionary sacrifice of Jesus Christ on Calvary. We experience his transforming power through the reality of Christ’s resurrection. His purpose for every life is that we would love him, know him, walk with him, and serve him all our days. Do you have confidence that you are called by God? You are. You have been chosen as his child.

Consider your calling while you are at your school or workplace today.

Jim Dunn is the president of Oklahoma Wesleyan University. He previously served as the executive director of the Church Multiplication and Discipleship for The Wesleyan Church.