Its For You. God Is Calling

TheMedicalMinistryBlog Part 3 of 3 — Answering the Call: How to Recognize and Respond to God’s Calling in Your Life

Over the past two articles, we’ve explored the idea of calling as more than a feeling—it’s a relationship. In Part 1, Morris Venden reminded us that discovering God’s will is rooted in drawing near to Him, not decoding signs. In Part 2, Carl Coffman led us through a deeply practical and devotional journey, helping us understand that calling often unfolds gradually, through daily surrender, obedience, and trust.

In this final post of the series, we look at the personal and sometimes perplexing journey of recognizing your own calling. Because here’s the truth: we were not made to drift through life. We were made to walk in step with the God who created us for His purpose, to reflect His character, and to bring Him glory. Anything less leaves us feeling unfulfilled.

When Calling Feels Nebulous

So how do we know what our calling is?

For many of us, that question doesn’t come with an easy answer. We weren’t raised to think in terms of divine purpose. Few of us have ever been asked to reflect on what our unique role in God’s kingdom might be—or how to articulate it.

Sometimes calling feels like a mist: real, but hard to grasp. Yet Scripture is clear—God calls us. He predestines, justifies, and glorifies us (Romans 8:30). He calls us to walk in a manner worthy of that calling (Ephesians 4:1). We are not here by accident.

God’s calling often shows itself as we become aware of our spiritual gifts. But more than gifts, true calling is woven into how God uses our personalities, passions, and life experience to build and expand His kingdom. Your calling strengthens the body of Christ. It lifts others. It fits uniquely with how you were made.

In my own life, calling hasn’t come all at once. It has unfolded slowly, often revealed only after I’ve taken the next small step in faith. There were no lightning bolts—just simple obedience in the face of fear, pain, or uncertainty. Over time, that step-by-step journey became a path. And that path, illuminated by God’s providence, became my calling.

Grounded in Scripture, Confirmed by the Spirit

Here are just a few passages that have anchored me in this process:

• Romans 8:28 – You are called according to His purpose. Even your pain is not wasted.
• Ephesians 1:11 – You’ve been chosen and predestined according to His plan.
• 1 Peter 2:21 – Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example so you can follow His steps.
• Isaiah 43:1-7 – You are called by name, redeemed, and created for His glory.
• 2 Timothy 1:9 – You are called with a holy calling—not because of your works, but because of His purpose and grace.

God’s call is always deeper than comfort and broader than career. It is about becoming more like Christ and serving in ways that magnify His character.

Spirit of Prophecy Insight

Ellen White offers profound insight into the nature of calling, particularly for those engaged in the sacred blend of medical ministry and gospel work. Her writings repeatedly emphasize that God’s calling is not an abstract concept, but a directive filled with purpose and accountability.

She speaks plainly: “You are not your own. You have been bought with a price. Your time, your talents, every jot of your influence, is the Lord’s.” This isn’t just about career choice—it’s a full surrender of self. When God calls, He claims ownership over our direction, our gifts, and our service.

In one vision, she recounts a dialogue with someone wrestling with indecision about their path. The heavenly instruction was clear: Do not strike out alone. Do not build partnerships that dilute the sacred purpose of your work. Instead, stand shoulder to shoulder with those who share your mission. Collaboration, humility, and mutual support are essential when walking in the will of God.

Ellen White also warns against spiritual complacency and selfish ambition. She writes that the heart must be cleansed from envy, evil surmising, and self-centeredness. A life that reflects God’s calling will shine with love and humility. “Believers must constantly receive and impart the love of God.” Only then can we truly be the salt and light Jesus calls us to be.

In her counsel, calling is not only about what we do—but who we become. God calls us to reflect the character of Christ, to draw near to others in love, and to build up the body of Christ with integrity.

She concludes with a promise: if we live out our calling faithfully, the world will take note. They will say of us, “They have been with Jesus.” And that, in the end, is the truest confirmation of a life lived in harmony with God’s will.

To Summarize, Ellen White wrote with deep conviction about calling—especially for those working in the combined field of medicine and ministry. She reminds us:

• “You are not your own. You have been bought with a price. Your time, your talents, every jot of your influence, is the Lord’s.”
• “None of us are to strike out alone; we are to link up with our brethren, and pull together.”
• “The heart must be purified from all envy, all evil surmising. Believers must constantly receive and impart the love of God.”

We’re reminded that true calling brings us into unity—with God, and with one another. It shapes our choices. It compels us to serve not out of obligation but out of joy. And it aligns us with the great purpose of heaven.

A Final Invitation: Called to His Glory

Friend, you were not created to chase success or simply survive each day. You were created to live a life of holy purpose. You were called according to His will, designed to reflect His image, and invited to fulfill His mission.

You may not have all the answers. You don’t need them. But God is calling—and your only job is to respond.

So take time.

• Pray in stillness.
• Search the Word again.
• Revisit the longings of your heart.
• Listen to the nudges of the Spirit.

And know this: God will not stop calling you until you know—deep in your soul—that you are His.

Because you are.

And that truth changes everything.

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