Just a thought…
I wonder how many times in the past I have thought God was speaking to me about something big, where it actually turned out to be delusions of grandeur? But then again, I have also seen God do some big things and if he is going to use someone (not me in particular), then the call must be big, right?
I’m just kind of thinking out loud, here. It seems as though every pastor-in-training feels called to the “huge.” That is certainly an overstatement, but from those I have known studying for the ministry it seems to be a given that their call is large… by the world’s standards.
The thought just occurred to me that much of what we claim as God’s call could more aptly be described as a narcissistic deity complex. I think this issue is another in which the tension between God and man play out. God does call people for great things (even by the world’s standards), but sometimes there can be our own desire for success muddying the waters.
Every pastor should ask him or herself why they believe in their calling. Is it the push of the Holy Spirit or is it a transferring of worldly parameters for success to one’s spiritual life?
This post makes me smile, and cringe.
How hard it is to be content with the mundane glory of everyday living. I know.
Abiding
May 15th, 2006
Your calling should feel huge. You’re being called into something that’s much bigger than yourself.
Sure, there are some that are seeking success for the wrong reasons, but I think the “huge” feeling is simply a red herring.
Ben Walling
May 19th, 2006