When a calling feels impossible…
I still remember the day I almost gave up writing.đ
While speaking with a literary agent about my book idea, she asked whether I fully understood the commitment required to finish a manuscript on a publisher’s deadline.
It was going to mean late nights after the kids went to sleep.
Taking advantage of nap times to write chapters.
Even some Saturdays would be dedicated to finishing the book.
After the meeting, I talked it over with my husband. It was going to mean sacrifices â some I wasn’t sure were right or easy. I even compared myself to other women whose situations were different.
Maybe writing is too much.
Maybe God didn’t really call me to do this.
Maybe I need to grow up and move on.
Tears streamed down my face as I thought about how far I’d come and how much effort I’d invested to prepare for writing a book. If I wasn’t going to pursue publishing because it was going to be hard, then what was the point?
Maybe I should just stop writing.
Stop posting on social media.
Stop submitting blog articles to online publications.
Stop working on my book.
I was on the brink of giving it all up. But my husband encouraged me. Having already published a book himself, he understood the dedication it required. He supported me and reminded me we could make the schedule work.
That evening, I checked my email and saw an article I’d written months ago had been chosen for publication by Proverbs 31 Ministries. The woman who wrote the email thanked me for the article and said my words were pointing women back to God’s truth.
I needed to hear that.
I was reminded that God was at work. He was leadingâeven when I felt I could go no further. Even when I felt inadequate and sat in a pool of my own tears, God was still using me.
He’s still using you.
“He who called you is faithful” (1 Thess. 5:24).
If He’s leading you, He will help you.
If He’s called you, He will equip you.
If God has put a holy dream in your heart, He will bring it to pass. When the timing is right, He will make it happen. Even if it’s hard.
We don’t have to rush or force it.
We don’t have to wait until people applaud.
One faithful day at a time, we move forward. Not because we see results or have it all figured out. But because God is leading, we walk by faith.
Your calling matters. It’s not all on your shoulders to make it happen, but your faithful steps make a difference. God will use your little to do much in His kingdom.
When you doubt your calling, ask these 3 questions
1. Has God been leading me in this direction?
Spending time with God in prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with believers are the best way to be sure we are hearing His still, small voice and being led by Him. When His gentle nudges keep coming back, we can step out confidently. If Heâs leading, itâs time to obey.
2. Do I care more about what God thinks or people say?
Fear of man will keep us quietly locked away and ineffective at what God has called us to do. If we wait until we feel comfortable or everyone understands, we will never move forward in faith. Letâs look to Him, not peopleâs opinions.
3. What am I afraid of?
Be specific. Perhaps you doubt Godâs timing and worry youâll step out too soon or too late. Maybe youâre worried youâre unqualified or not enough. Maybe you feel like you need more clarity first to have it all figured out. Maybe you think youâll fail if you try. We can bring our fears honestly before God in prayer. Fear doesnât get to dictate whether we obey.
As you pursue your calling, God will help you, friend.
What is God calling you to do today?
Where is He calling you to persevere and depend on Him?
#persevere #calling #grace #walkbyfaith #faith
