Don’t Quit Your Day Job!

Each of you, dear brothers and sisters, should remain as you were when God first called you.

1 Corinthians 7:24

MANY YEARS AGO, a young man was interviewed for a job with an internationally recognized ministry. The interview went well, and as it was wrapping up, the hiring manager asked him if he’d be willing to commit to work for one year. He responded, “I go wherever the Lord calls me, so I can’t commit even for one week.”

As it turned out, the young man ended up working for that ministry for more than twenty-five years! Though we tend to believe God’s calling on our life will be like Abram’s or Paul’s—to a new place or to a new line of work—God often calls us to stay put, right where He has placed us.

When Paul wrote to the believers in Corinth, many expected that God would call them to something new now that they had come to know Jesus. Instead, Paul says that they “remain as [they] were when God first called [them].” For the moment, they were exactly where God wanted them to be.

You may not think that you’re where you should be, but God can provide opportunities to minister to others through your job, your location, and even your daily routine. The entire universe is in God’s control—from the migration patterns of birds to the prosperity of nations. At least for the time being, you can prayerfully seek opportunities to make an impact for the Kingdom right where you are.

BOTTOM LINE

Be sensitive to God’s calling, but don’t forget your calling to follow Him right now, right where you are.

Moment of Strength: Isaiah 46:10