'Driven or Called?'

The world revolves around their own advancement, the opportunities their money affords them, and their relationships. If any of those doesn’t match up to expectations, they are dismissed, changed, or resented. However, none of us lives unto ourself.

 When God was leading His people into the Promised Land, He knew how quickly they could become self-sufficient in their own eyes. After all, God was leading them into the land ‘flowing with milk and honey’ – the good life. He promised prosperity and peace. The problem arises when we think that we have achieved that and own the results. God warned them before they entered the bounty of Israel. “remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the very ability to produce wealth.”(Deut 8:18) 

 The USA is pretty much the ‘Promised Land’, with all its opportunities to have a job, build a career, and reap the financial rewards. The emphasis on individualism and ‘pulling yourself up by your own bootstraps’ makes us think that what we have was created by ourselves, not God. We become driven, proud, and entitled. We need to remember what God told the Israelites. It is God who gives us the very ability – the skills, interests, energy, and relationships – to produce wealth.

 When we understand that wealth comes from God’s blessings and not self-sufficiency, we begin to understand what it means to be Called. We are Called to do our best with the gifts given. Part of that is developing those around us so they can reach their God-given potential. It is building a career which builds others up through mentoring and giving opportunities. It is generosity to God’s kingdom work. Being Called comes from a fundamental disposition of gratitude. We steward God’s gifts for the good of others. Our life becomes outward looking for the glory of God. 

 Are you Driven or Called? How is God Calling you specifically to develop and build others up? How is gratitude and generosity shaping your work in the world? 

 We are a Called people. Consider what that that means in this month of stewardship. How is God Calling you to serve and give in 2023. We will only go through 2023 once. Make it count for the Kingdom! 

 Walking in the Way,

Jonathan