What To Do When You Feel God Calling You Into Ministry

A friend contacted me the other day and asked for me to give them advice on what to do if they were feeling God "calling" them into ministry.  The circumstances that bring one to "sense" God's leading into ministry is different for everyone, but the process of seeking clarity is pretty straight forward.  Here are some tidbits I picked up along the way when processing my calling into the ministry that I shared with him.  I changed their names for privacy.

Dear John,

I am excited to hear that you feel God's leading into the ministry. There is no reason to fear this because if God is calling you to serve Him then you will not be fulfilled doing anything else. It has been amazing to see how you and your wife have grown in your faith. Growth like that takes a Godly husband and father. In your quest to find God's will for your life, look at the small things. Ask yourself questions like:

• "Are there areas in my church where I can serve?.
• Where does God want me right now?
• Am I currently serving where He wants?
• What am I not doing that I believe God wants me to do?
• What will take the most faith for me to do?"

All of these are great questions and God will answer through His Word, Spirit and other godly people. Your wife will be a big help too. She knows you better than you do. She sees when you are happy and at peace with what God has for you. In my years I have learned that I am ready to move when my wife is. Trust her. She has her own journey with God and He gives her special insight as your help mate.

Finally, talk with your Pastor or another Godly mentor. Pray for God's direction and do not be afraid to act when He gives an opportunity. When you look at Moses, Noah, Abraham etc. God gave them a command with few details. This caused them to depend more on Him during their journey. He does the same with us. Fear is okay if it moves you to action.

Romans 10:15 (HCSB) And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: How beautiful are the feet of those who announce the gospel of good things!

I am praying for you both, let me know if you ever need anything or just want to talk.

God Bless!

James

So what do you think?  What advice would you give this young man?  What would you agree with, add or take away?