Called by God
Jan 14, 2021 at 5:58 AM
‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’ (Isaiah 6:8)
God’s calling has been a profound focus for me since becoming a Christian. As I’ve aged, it’s been on my mind more and more. I even tend to the extreme belief that God has designated a unique mission for me (and for everyone) — a special task. One day, I’ll receive that call.
But in reality, I’ve been waiting without hope or joy.
Through Oswald Chambers’ insights, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of this familiar verse.
When God asks, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’, it’s not directed at a specific individual (like Isaiah), nor does it unveil a specific task until after Isaiah responds, ‘Here am I. Send me.’
From God’s perspective, this calling is more about someone willingly responding with, ‘Here am I. Send me.’ It’s about someone who offers themselves without questions about the task, just as Abraham followed God’s call to go, not knowing where he was going. (Hebrews 11:8)
As for me, I’ve been focused on ’the specific task of the calling.’ On deeper reflection, I realize I’m seeking to prove my value through a task. Digging deeper, perhaps I’m looking to validate my worth. ‘Achieving one’s value’ sounds normal enough in this era. On the surface, it seems similar to ‘responding to God’s call’, but the truth is, there’s a huge difference.
The difference lies in offering oneself as a living sacrifice, fully denying oneself, without any personal agenda, and allowing oneself to be sent.
Oswald Chambers finally reminded me, ‘Do not assume God will implore you, or plead with you.’ Indeed, in some service contexts or external needs, I’ve often harbored such foolish, arrogant thoughts.
Thank God for:
- A conversation with Pastor X about the role of parents in their children’s faith. He mentioned that whether a child comes to faith is God’s work. As parents, what we should do is live our own faith well, bear good witness, consistently teach children the Bible (and its principles), and avoid setting stumbling blocks. He also provided great insights on family time management and personal vision.
- A deep discussion with my daughter on a specific issue. When emotions were building on both sides, I suggested we each pray and then return to talk. Forty minutes later, my daughter came out with a diagram and notes — her thoughts after praying. Her explanation turned calm (so I asked her twice: is this truly what you think? You don’t need to say anything against your conscience just to make us happy.) Thank God for leading Linda’s growth, for her heart often becoming soft and peaceful.
- Thank God for safeguarding our family life lately. We are experiencing living in dependence on God.