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JBaldwin · #13 (**permalink**) 07-07-2008, 08:29 AM

Based on the experiences of Paul laid out in Scripture, and even with the OT saints, God does call people to specific works for specific times. Sometimes it's for their entire life, sometimes it's only for a season of their lives. If we are walking with Him, we will be sensitive to these things and follow Him.

I think about the idea laid out in the Psalms that God leads one step at a time. In my own experience, I was in a prayer meeting for missionaries and felt burdened to go to France. I didn't see how that was going to happen, but told the Lord I would go. No one knew about this desire, but shortly after that someone came to me and asked if I would be willing to join a summer mission team to France. I went.

I returned after that summer to finish my school and was asked by the leadership to return. I did. When my first term was over, I tried everything I could to go back. I was left feeling guilty because I had "abandoned the call", walked away on the Lord, etc. I finally realized my "call" was really only for a short time of my life, and I have always been open to returning should God call me to that.

Since then, God has lead me into other endeavors for His church, some for a long time, some for a short time. The "call" has not been much different from my "call" to go to France. We are the sheep of His pasture and He leads us where He wants us to go, and it is always for His glory and our sakes.