Discerning God's Call To Ministry

There is a saying that it is always easier to steer a moving train than to start one moving which is stopped. How true this is when it comes to feeling a call from God to rostered ministry in the church. Yes, we know that God guides us in this discerning process and has plans for our lives. But we also have some say in the process. If we just sit back and wait for the voice of God to tell us what to do – we might be sitting a long time!

Recently, a group of adults already working in a career came together at the recent Invitation to Ministry to talk about discerning their sense of call from God to rostered ministry. Chris Young, an intern at St. Mark’s Bowling Green from Trinity Lutheran Seminary, talked about the struggles and questions career people ask when trying to address the thoughts of breaking away from an established career and returning back to school for a vocation in ministry. Chris admitted that it was a tough decision and she still founds herself struggling. But for some reason there always seems to be a way in spite of what she feels are obstacles. She talked about what some of the obstacles might look like: your income is a major contributing factor to the livelihood of your family, you have children, you can’t afford to go to seminary, where would you stay, or your just not sure this is the right direction.

When you feel that nudge inside from God and aren’t sure of the direction there are a number of things we can do practically. A good place to start is with the scriptures. Not only do we learn more about the Bible but we also develop a closer relationship with God. Then there is prayer. With prayer try to create a time of quiet space. It’s hard to hear God speak when we’re so busy with our everyday lives. Ask people you know and trust or your pastor about your call to ministry. Can they affirm your call and see the gifts you have for ministry?

These are just a few suggestions. If you find rostered ministry isn’t the direction you thought you were headed, please remember we’ve all been blessed with gifts, gifts that can be used in the church and to the glory of God.