Devotional

You Are Called

Ready 

“For God saved us and called us to live a holy life. He did this, not because we deserved it, but because that was his plan from before the beginning of time—to show us his grace through Christ Jesus.” -- 2 Timothy 1:9

Set 

It’s the greatest feeling in the world when we make a team, get selected as captain or hit any milestone worth celebrating. We revel in knowing we’re seen and selected.

 

What does it mean to be called by God? What is He inviting us into? Besides knowing Him deeper, there are certain places and people He wants us to be around so we can be His hands and feet and speak of His great love. God desires us to dig into our roles in this world and unfold our gifts and talents in a few specific ways to put His grace on display.

 

Called to Love

 

God has given us many commandments that align with His character and heart, the greatest being to love Him with everything we have. In our thoughts, words and actions, we showcase the heart of God as we love the people around us just as God loves us. From the overflow of our ongoing relationship with Jesus, we see through a different lens the teammate we struggle getting along with, the parent who constantly questions us and the coach who can’t seem to be satisfied. We encourage and build others up so they experience a life in Christ, a life they’ve never known was available.

 

Called to Lead

 

If we want to know how to lead with integrity, humility, compassion and strength, look to Jesus. His example attracted people from every background, way of life and struggle. His kindness shaped how they were seen, and His truth gave them the freedom to live out their purpose and tell those around them about the transforming grace of God. To lead, we first listen to Jesus and then we share what we hear. Our teammates, families and classmates are all in need of Jesus, and our knowledge of Him is a beam of light for them as they navigate a confusing world.

 

Called to Last

 

Jesus gave us the command at the end of Matthew to go out in the world and share His Kingdom message with everyone we meet. He also said to not only share, but to disciple, to spend time together getting into His Word and teaching what it means to be His follower. Jesus loves when we become His disciples and invest our time, energy and influence into others as they grow in their own faith. We are part of God’s plan to fill the world with His purpose, and discipling a younger teammate or newer coach creates a multiplication of impact that furthers His Gospel into the world.

 

God’s goodness compels us to love, lead and disciple for the sake of His Kingdom. He’s put specific people around us that He has entrusted to us. Let’s accept His invitation and embrace His call to bring His salvation to everyone. You are called. Now go and tell!

Go 
  • What does it mean to be called by God?
  • How has God called you to be His light to the people around you? What does this mean to you?
  • Invite your team to do a short team study together on discipleship or character.
Overtime 

“Father, thank You that You have plans for the world, and for my life, too. Thank You that You have called me out of darkness and into Your light to live with You forever through Jesus’ death and resurrection. Help me to be confident that You will never leave nor forsake me and that You are my protector and provider. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”