I have long held the opinion that the ever-popular teaching about finding your destiny and/or calling is flat-out wrong and even dangerous. Now, let me clarify. It isn’t that I believe people don’t have destinies or callings. I think that pursuing a calling or destiny is where we go wrong. Remember this common Christian warning: The enemy only needs to get you off a little bit. When we pursue destiny or calling or even purpose, we are off that little bit. Here is why.
The word “destiny” isn’t in the Bible (that I can find). The word “calling” appears to mean being called by God to Himself; not called to a ministry or to perform some great feat. More like your mother calling you to come in for supper.
So, my understanding is that pursuits of callings and destinies are a diversion from our pursuit of the Lord. It is a little bit off. Jesus told us to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Then, and only then, are the other things added to us by God.
So, if I’m not here to be important and accomplish great things, why am I here? I think all of us are here for this reason: To Learn to Follow Jesus Every Single Day No Matter What and No Matter the Cost.
Along that path, we may achieve a purpose or realize a destiny. Our dreams may come true. But as soon as we make those things the reason we roll out of bed, we are on the wrong path. How many times have I seen wounded people (that includes us all) desperately clinging to the hope of someday realizing a far-off destiny that will heal all their hurts and fulfill all their dreams? Too many times.
When I was a new Christian, I remember longing to be in ministry so that I would feel worthwhile. I longed for a destiny that would make me important, admired and acceptable in the eyes of my fellow fallen man. (And—to be completely honest—safe from the unkindness of my fellow fallen man).
I have learned that the admiration of people is thrilling for about 5 minutes, then the craving for more sets in. It doesn’t satisfy. Nothing within a malfunctioning heart is ever healed by gaining the admiration of fallen humanity.
Please consider laying down your desire for a destiny or calling. Instead, deliberately take up your cross and follow Him. Just do that every day for the rest of your life.
What is taking up your cross? In this case, it is laying down your pursuit of any destiny beyond following Jesus (Luke 9:23). Because there is only one way to safely and meaningfully navigate the fall. There is only one way that will ultimately fulfill and satisfy us completely (John 14:6).
When you do lay down your hopes and ambitions, you will never be disappointed if things don’t work out. Why? Because you are following Jesus through the good times and the bad. That is your calling, your destiny and purpose. That is the fulfillment of your hopes and dreams.
We are not here to be famous, important or even to write books (that’s for me). We are not here to get married, have a family or become wealthy. We are not here to be pastors or prophets. We are here to follow Him. Only that, and it is more than enough.
This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. John 17:3
Blessings and hugs,
Susan
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