Be contented in your calling

“Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called.” 1Co 7:20

Some people have the foolish notion that the only way in which they can live for God is by becoming ministers, pastors, missionaries, or Bible women. Alas! how many would be excluded from any opportunity for magnifying the Most High if this were the case. Beloved, it is not office, it is earnestness; it is not position, it is grace which will enable us to glorify God. Ps 42:1-2, 63:1, Je 29:13, He 11:6.

God is most surely glorified in that cobbler’s shop, where the godly worker, as he works on the shoes, sings about the Saviour’s love, indeed, glorified far more than in many a cathedral where official religiousness performs its scanty duties. God is glorified by our serving him in our proper vocations. Take care, dear reader, that you do not forsake the path of duty by leaving your occupation, and take care you do not dishonour your profession while in it. Think little of yourselves, but do not think too little of your callings. Ec 9:19. Every lawful trade may be sanctified by the gospel to the noblest purposes. Turn to the Bible, and you will find the most menial forms of labour connected either with most daring deeds of faith, or with people whose lives have been illustrious for holiness.

Therefore be contented with your calling. Whatever God has made your position, or your work, remain in that, unless you are quite sure that he calls you to something else. Let your first care be to glorify God to the utmost of your power where you are. Fill your present sphere to his praise, and if he needs you in another he will show it to you. Today lay aside vexatious ambition, and embrace peaceful contentment. May God help you to be faithful in your calling, in Jesus name. Amen.

Adapted from Evening by Evening, C.H. Spurgeon

Prayer:
O God my Father, reveal to me where you have called me, and help me to stay focused, in the name of Jesus.

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