When He Calls

“Go through your list of people and pick one person to encourage.” It was late at night and I was tired enough I almost dismissed the thought, but no matter how hard I tried to ignore it, the urge remained persistent.

I had recently joined an online writing group and was in the process of getting to know people, and as an introvert and the new kid in town, I didn’t particularly want to put myself out there and send a private message to someone I didn’t know.

“All right, Lord,” I said finally. “I’ll do it, but please lead me to the one person that needs your words the most.”

Prayerfully, I went through the group directory and picked someone that I felt God was leading me to and sent some encouragement off. That person is now one of my closest friends. She recently told me how much that one message changed her life, offered hope in an otherwise dark season in her life, and strengthened her relationship with God.

This happened all because I obeyed the Lord’s call to minister to someone even though I felt uncomfortable doing so. How many times prior, though, have I brushed off his voice, disregarding it because what he was calling me to do pulled me out of my comfort zone?

When God calls us, and if we’re willing and obedient to heed him, he can do far more through us than we could ever imagine — even if we don’t see the fruit of it right away. All it takes is one person who says, “Okay, God. Here I am. Use me.”

Father, thank you for your Spirit, who leads us moment by moment in your will. Thank you also for all the joy that comes from heeding your voice and seeing you at work in people’s lives. Continue to give me today so that I remain attentive to your leading.

Throughout This Day: Seek to practice the presence of God, inviting him to guide you step by step in his will.