For everything under Heaven, there is a purpose. Each of us is uniquely created with a divine calling, a purpose only we can fulfil. No one else can walk in your destiny or live out your purpose. While some may discover their calling early, many go through life wondering what theirs might be.
Many people believe that a calling is limited to church ministry, preaching, singing, or missionary work. However, glorifying God is not confined to a pulpit or a church building. Whether you are a banker, a farmer, an artist, or a teacher, your lifestyle should be one of worship and honour to God. Your work, attitude, and integrity should reflect His glory.
Recognising your unique calling
One of the greatest struggles in discovering our calling is the tendency to jump from one thing to another, seeking fulfilment without fully committing, or simply copying what others have done without conducting our own research.
This year, I began the process of building a house, and the entire experience reminded me of a passage in Luke 14:28. Jesus teaches about the importance of counting the cost before building: if a man sets out to build a tower, he must first lay a solid foundation. Likewise, if we desire to walk in our calling, we must understand the preparation and sacrifices required.
Just as a king does not go into battle without a strategy, we must be prepared to face challenges in fulfilling our calling, as opposition will arise. Jesus makes it clear that unless we are willing to forsake all and follow Him, we cannot be His disciples. Walking in our calling requires discipline, faith, and perseverance.
Building solid foundation
Fulfilling your calling is like constructing a building. Before a structure rises, the foundation must be dug deep. The deeper the foundation, the stronger the building. A solid foundation requires excavation, removing everything that is weak and unreliable until you find solid ground. It takes time and patience. When storms come, only a life built on the solid rock of Jesus will stand firm.
The kind of foundation you lay determines how high you can go. If you aim to build a bungalow, the foundation requirements are different from those of a skyscraper. In the same way, the magnitude of your calling depends on the strength of your personal foundation in Christ. 1 Corinthians 3:11 tells us that no foundation can be laid except that which is in Christ Jesus.
Strengthening foundation
Once the foundation is dug, it must be reinforced. Builders use crushed stones to strengthen the base. These stones are of the same material as the rock they are building on. Likewise, we must align ourselves with Christ, ensuring that our personal experiences, growth, and choices reflect His character.
Then comes the cement. Once it settles, it becomes unshakable. This part of the process is unseen, yet it is the most crucial. Just as a builder works underground before any visible progress is made, God works within us in unseen ways, shaping our character, testing our faith, and refining our purpose. Are we truly motivated by the glory of God, or are we seeking personal gain? Is your work or business built on a firm foundation of faith and trust in the God who has called us?
Living as an open letter
Once the foundation is set, the visible structure begins to take shape. It will either be a masterpiece or a poorly built structure. The world will see the results of your efforts—your work ethic, integrity, and excellence. Many people settle for mediocrity because they are unwilling to sacrifice comfort for the sake of their calling. Excellence requires dedication, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to God’s purpose. Paul describes believers as open letters for all to read (2 Corinthians 3:2-3). What message does your life communicate?
Excellence is a form of worship, and our work should reflect order, ethics, and service. Dependability matters. If we say we will do something, we should follow through. Small acts of faithfulness compound over time. God has entrusted His excellence into our hands.
Your calling is not limited by your location, job, or status. Whether you are a farmer, teacher, entrepreneur, student, or leader, God has placed you where you are for a divine reason. Like Esther, who was positioned “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14), God has a unique purpose for you. Embrace it with faith, diligence, and a heart willing to serve, and you will see His plan unfold in your life.
Your lifestyle and work should be an act of worship and a reflection of excellence. So, what is your calling? Are you ready to lay a strong foundation and build something that truly glorifies God?
