So many things have changed in the last few weeks during the coronavirus pandemic. Events have been postponed, routines have been disrupted, and the ways we interact have been adjusted. But while cancellations have become the norm, one thing that hasn’t been canceled is God’s calling on your life.
Hundreds of years ago, the apostle Paul declared, “The gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable” (Romans 11:29, NKJV). That statement has never been more relevant than now! Know that you still have a purpose! You have a high calling from God that will never go away.
Paul definitely understood this truth. He was called to be an apostle, and he never forgot that, despite his circumstances. Some of his letters which are now books of the Bible were written while he was in prison! One of those epistles is Paul’s letter to the Ephesian church, and he opens with this greeting: “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints who are in Ephesus, and faithful in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 1:1). Even as a prisoner, Paul opened by declaring that he was an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God.
You see, Paul understood that just because he was in prison, the call of God did not go away. God’s call doesn’t vanish or even diminish when we go through difficult times. Even in today’s challenging circumstances, His call is still alive in you!
Let us learn from Paul’s example. While he was a prisoner, he certainly had to change his methods, but he continued to minister. He couldn’t travel on missionary journeys, but he did what he was able to do. He wrote letters to believers and encouraged them in the work of God. He made the best of his situation.
He believed that “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). We need to believe that truth as well. Obviously, we can’t carry on business as usual for a while, but let’s look for what we can do.
You may have special gifts you could share in unique ways right now. People all over the world are in need of spiritual, physical, and emotional strength, and you can play a part in helping. “Who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14).
This season is also a critical time to listen to the Lord. While we may not be able to be as active, we can still grow in our gifts and callings by seeking the Lord diligently. As we do, He will speak strength, hope, and direction that will keep us going and keep us growing.
Jesus told His disciples not to worry about their lives, what they would eat or drink or wear. “For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33).
Indeed, it is more important than ever that we seek Him first. As we do, I believe God will strengthen us individually and also show us ways we can still make a difference in others. So let’s listen for Him and continue to follow Him. He has a call on your life that is powerful and a plan that is perfect.
Reflections 