How to know your calling

Are you struggling to identify what your calling is ? I will be helping with that in this post

Text: Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

The Video above will help in prayers for glory restoration

We are diving into a question that stirs the hearts of many: How do I know my calling? Each of us, at some point, has wondered, “What is God’s purpose for my life? What am I supposed to do with the time, talents, and opportunities He’s given me?” Whether you’re young and just starting out, in the middle of life’s busyness, or in a season of reflection, the desire to know your calling is universal. It’s a longing to align your life with God’s divine plan.

The good news is this: God has a calling for you. As we see in Jeremiah 29:11, He has plans for you—plans filled with hope and purpose. Your calling is not a mystery to God, and He wants to reveal it to you. Today, we’ll explore four biblical and practical steps to discern your calling, so you can walk confidently in the path God has prepared for you.

1. Seek God in Prayer

The first step to knowing your calling is to seek God through prayer. Psalm 32:8 says, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” God is not hiding His will from you—He wants to guide you! But to hear His voice, you must draw near to Him.

Prayer is where you align your heart with God’s heart. It’s not just about asking, “Lord, what’s my calling?” It’s about surrendering your plans and saying, “Lord, what is Your will for my life?” Jesus modeled this in the Garden of Gethsemane when He prayed, “Not my will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42). When you pray, ask God to reveal His purpose, to stir your heart toward what matters to Him, and to give you clarity.

Practical Step: Set aside intentional time each day to pray and listen. Be still before God. Ask Him to show you His plans, and be open to His leading, even if it surprises you.

2. Discover Your Gifts and Passions

The second step is to pay attention to the gifts and passions God has placed within you. In 1 Corinthians 12:4-6, Paul writes, “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them… All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and He distributes them to each one, just as He determines.” Your calling is often connected to the unique way God has wired you.

What are you naturally good at? What activities make you lose track of time because you love them so much? Maybe you have a gift for teaching, encouraging others, serving, creating, or leading. These are clues to your calling. For example, Moses was called to lead Israel, and God used his experiences as a shepherd and his passion for justice. David’s love for music and worship shaped his calling as a psalmist and king.

But here’s the key: your gifts are not just for you—they’re for God’s glory and to serve others. As 1 Peter 4:10 says, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace.”

Practical Step: Make a list of your talents, skills, and passions. Ask trusted friends or family what they see in you. Then, consider how these gifts can be used to bless others and advance God’s kingdom.

3. Listen to God’s Word and Wise Counsel

The third step is to immerse yourself in God’s Word and seek wise counsel. Psalm 119:105 tells us, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” The Bible is God’s primary way of speaking to us. It reveals His character, His priorities, and His principles for living. Your calling will always align with Scripture—it will never contradict God’s truth.

For example, if you feel called to a specific career or ministry, test it against Scripture. Does it honor God? Does it reflect His love and justice? Additionally, seek counsel from mature believers. Proverbs 15:22 says, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” God often confirms His calling through the wisdom of others who know Him and know you.

Practical Step: Spend time daily reading the Bible, asking God to speak to you through His Word. Find a mentor or pastor you trust and share your thoughts about your calling. Listen to their feedback prayerfully.

4. Step Out in Faith

Finally, knowing your calling requires stepping out in faith. Hebrews 11:6 reminds us, “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” Sometimes, God reveals your calling not in a single moment of clarity but through the process of walking forward in obedience. Abraham was called to leave his home for a land God would show him (Genesis 12:1). He didn’t have all the details, but he trusted God and moved forward.

Your calling may unfold gradually. It might involve taking small steps—volunteering at church, trying a new ministry, or pursuing a skill. Don’t wait for a booming voice from heaven! Start where you are, with what you have, and trust God to guide your steps. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

Practical Step: Identify one small action you can take this week to explore your calling. Maybe it’s signing up for a ministry, taking a class, or serving in your community. Trust God to direct you as you move forward.

Conclusion

Friends, God has a unique calling for each of you—a purpose that brings Him glory and fulfills His plans for your life. To know your calling, seek Him in prayer, discover the gifts and passions He’s given you, immerse yourself in His Word and wise counsel, and step out in faith. Your calling may not always be a job or a title—it might be a way of living, loving, and serving that reflects Christ wherever you are.

As you leave here today, hold fast to Jeremiah 29:11. God knows the plans He has for you, and they are good. Trust Him, seek Him, and take the next step. Let’s pray.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your perfect plans for each of us. Help us to seek You, to discover the gifts You’ve given us, and to walk boldly in the calling You’ve placed on our lives. Give us courage to trust You, even when the path isn’t clear. May our lives bring You glory as we follow Your purpose. In Jesus’ name, Amen.