God still speaks today by calling out to His people.  The Bible has a lot to say about the calling of God and reveals at least seven characteristics of His call.  Today, I’d like to share about one of those truths, the fact that He calls us right where we are.

The third chapter of First Samuel holds the account of young Samuel being called by God for the first time.  One aspect of the story I find interesting is that Samuel was simply lying in his bed when God called.  The boy wasn’t necessarily doing anything “spiritual” at the moment; he was just going about his normal routine.  Yet, God called him right where he was.

We can learn from Samuel’s experience that we should always be open to hearing the voice of God, even while we’re carrying on very normal activities.  Whether you’re on the job, taking a walk, brushing your teeth, or whatever you’re doing, you should always be open to hearing His voice.

Sometimes, we think of the calling of God as something far removed from everyday life.  However, I’ve found that His call is often connected to our daily activities.  God may call you to make a difference all around the world, but He usually starts by leading you to make a difference in the world right around you.  John Maxwell wrote, “The calling of God comes as the result of obediently seizing an opportunity that is close at hand.”  God calls us right where we are and encourages us to make a difference right where we are.

Consider these words which God spoke through Moses to the children of Israel: “For this commandment which I command you today is not too mysterious for you, nor is it far off.  It is not in heaven … Nor is it beyond the sea … But the word is very near you, in your mouth and in your heart, that you may do it” (Deut. 30:11-14, NKJV).  I believe God’s word to us today is the same.  It is not too mysterious for us or far off; it is very near us that we may do it.

We also should understand what God is looking for when He calls.  Paul addressed this topic in his first letter to the Corinthian church when he had to settle a question among the Christians.  Apparently, some people had been discussing whether the Jewish tradition of circumcision was a requirement for serving God.  Paul explained, “Was anyone called while circumcised? Let him not become uncircumcised. Was anyone called while uncircumcised? Let him not be circumcised. Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing, but keeping the commandments of God is what matters. Let each one remain in the same calling in which he was called” (1 Cor. 7:18-20, NKJV).

Paul clarified that what was important was not their natural state, but rather their obedience to God’s commands.  You see, God isn’t looking to check off a list of requirements about us before He will call us.  His call reaches us right where we are.

So, be open to God’s call whoever and wherever you are!  Know that you can hear the voice of God.  Jesus simply said, “If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear” (Mark 4:23, NKJV).  Listen for His voice today; He’ll call you right where you are.