Today’s guest post is by Rev. Dr. David Cornelius.

Why does Christ not take His followers to be with Him immediately after they accept Him as Savior and Lord? Why leave them in this world mixed with pain, suffering and hatred—joy, peace and love? Basically, “What is God’s purpose for the life of one who is trusting in Jesus Christ?”  What should one do with the gift of eternal life?   

This is a question that I have asked myself numerous times, beginning in childhood. It is a question that has been posed to me by fellow followers of Christ numerous times during my 50 plus years in ministry.  The title of this article is from a sermon that I heard prior to entering full time ministry.  It focused on discovering and obeying one’s “calling(s)” as a Christian.  I’m convinced that many Christians deal with this issue periodically throughout life.  I’ve learned that God provides the insight needed to deal with issues as needed. 

Ephesians 2:8-10 gives insight that can provide some guidance.  First, salvation is a gift from God.  It does not result from anything that one does to attain it.  It is not earned—it is a gift!  Second, God created good works (many kinds) that are to be done in this world.  Third, these good works are to be done by followers of Jesus Christ.  In several places, Scripture identifies some of the gifts (both abilities and people) given to followers of Christ to be used in doing these good works (e.g. 1 Corinthians 12; Romans 12:3-8; Ephesians 4:8-15).  Stated briefly, Christians are called to do the good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. 

Fifty plus years ago, I was experiencing a strong sense that we should leave a comfortable life in Dallas, TX and move as a family to Nigeria to serve as missionaries.  (I had never been outside of the United States.)  When I told my wife about this “call” from God, she immediately told me (in clear English) that she and our children would NOT be joining me on that move.  Was I not understanding what God wanted me/us to do? 

Over a period of a couple of years, we prayed and asked a few friends to pray for some clarity in this matter.  In time, my family’s NO, became YES, we’re willing to go.  Going through the application and appointment process of our mission agency affirmed that calling several times.  My family’s reluctance was used to get our timing in line with God’s timing.  (By the way, we have been confronted with various issues in fulfilling our callings over the years—including when confronted with the call to accept a staff position with our missionary sending agency and move back to the United States.) 

I learned that a calling involves not only WHAT, WHERE and HOW, but WHEN.  God has provided answers to all necessary questions as needed, and much more, in leading us toward fulfilling our calling(s)! 

FIVE PRINCIPLES LEARNED:  

• God’s timing is part of every call  
• There may be different callings at various stages of a Christian’s life 
• Hearing and understanding God’s call requires developing and maintaining a close relationship with Christ 
• Pray and practice listening for God’s Voice with a willingness to obey 
• Bottom Line: Whatever your vocation (retired or not), as a follower of Christ, you have your calling(s) to fulfill