More Than Saved
When we talk about salvation, it’s often limited to the moment someone accepts Christ. But redemption is not the end of the story—it’s the beginning. Salvation is the gateway to a greater purpose: to live out the calling God has placed on your life. Unfortunately, many believers live redeemed lives without ever walking in the reason for which they were redeemed. We were not just saved from sin; we were saved for something. This blog explores what it means to be redeemed for a purpose, and how to discover and walk in your calling in Christ.
Biblical Foundation: You Were Created With Purpose
From the beginning, God created humanity with intention. Genesis 1:26–28 reveals that humanity was made in God’s image, given dominion, and commanded to be fruitful and multiply. Purpose isn’t something we invent—it’s something we discover because it’s been there from the start.
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” — Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV)
God didn’t redeem you and then wonder what to do with you. He had a plan all along. Your gifts, personality, even your life experiences—both good and painful—are being redeemed and repurposed for His glory.
What Is “Calling”?
The term calling can seem mysterious or even elitist. But biblically, every believer has a calling. The Greek word for “church” is ekklesia, meaning “called-out ones.” We are all called—first to Christ, and then to service in His Kingdom.
Two Aspects of Calling:
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General Calling: To salvation, holiness, love, worship, and obedience.
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Specific Calling: The unique way God wants you to serve—whether in ministry, business, education, parenting, the arts, or elsewhere.
“To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” — 1 Corinthians 12:7 (ESV)
Misconceptions About Calling
There are several myths that keep believers from walking in their God-given purpose:
Myth #1: “Calling means full-time ministry.”
Not true. You don’t need to be behind a pulpit to be in ministry. Colossians 3:23 tells us to work heartily, as for the Lord. Whether you’re a teacher, engineer, or stay-at-home parent, you’re in ministry when you serve unto God.
Myth #2: “If I miss my calling, I’m doomed.”
God’s grace is bigger than our detours. Moses was 80 when he stepped into his calling. Paul was actively persecuting Christians when God called him. Redemption means God can repurpose your past.
Myth #3: “My calling must look impressive.”
Calling is about obedience, not applause. Some of the most impactful roles—like intercessors or mentors—often go unseen by the world but are crucial in the Kingdom.
How Do I Discover My Calling?
Finding your calling isn’t about striving—it’s about seeking.
Abide in Christ
John 15 makes it clear: fruitfulness comes from abiding. As you spend time in prayer, worship, and Scripture, God reveals His heart—and your purpose becomes clearer.
Examine Your Design
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What are your spiritual gifts? (See Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12)
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What are you passionate about?
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What breaks your heart?
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What strengths and experiences has God given you?
God rarely calls you to something completely disconnected from how He’s wired you.
Step Out in Faith
Often, we wait for the clouds to part and a voice to boom from heaven. But calling is usually discovered in motion. Serve in your local church. Volunteer. Try things. God directs moving vessels.
“Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established.” — Proverbs 16:3 (NKJV)
Calling Requires Preparation
Even Jesus, before He began His public ministry, spent 30 years in obscurity and 40 days in the wilderness. Moses was in the desert for 40 years. David was anointed king but returned to the fields.
Preparation seasons are not punishment. They’re divine training grounds. If you’re in a waiting season, don’t despise it—embrace it.
“Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” — 1 Peter 5:6 (NKJV)
Walking in Your Calling
Once you’ve discovered your calling, how do you walk in it?
Stay Dependent
Calling is not a self-help project. It requires daily surrender and dependence on the Holy Spirit. Pride will hinder your purpose. Humility releases power.
Endure Opposition
Every calling comes with resistance. Jesus faced rejection. Paul faced persecution. Nehemiah faced mockery. If you’re encountering obstacles, you may be on the right track.
Build Community
Your calling is personal, but not isolated. You need spiritual covering, accountability, and encouragement. Join a local church. Surround yourself with mature believers who will pray with you and speak truth.
Stay Faithful in the Small
Jesus said, “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much” (Luke 16:10). Sometimes, God tests us in “small” assignments before entrusting us with larger ones. Don’t wait for the big stage—minister faithfully wherever you are.
Your Calling Will Advance the Kingdom
God’s purpose in calling you isn’t to boost your ego or build your brand—it’s to expand His Kingdom. Your calling is always for the benefit of others and the glory of God.
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” — 1 Peter 4:10 (ESV)
That’s the difference between ambition and anointing. One builds your kingdom. The other builds His.
Your Calling Is Part of a Bigger Story
The beauty of calling is that it’s not just about you—it’s about God’s redemptive work in the earth. You are part of a tapestry that spans generations. You may be called to plant seeds someone else will harvest. Or you may harvest where others have sown. Either way, your obedience echoes into eternity.
“For David, after he had served the purpose of God in his own generation, fell asleep…” — Acts 13:36 (ESV)
What a powerful epitaph—to say you fulfilled God’s purpose for your life.
You Were Redeemed for This
You weren’t saved to sit still. You were saved to step into something eternal. Your calling may not look flashy. It may not be applauded. But if it’s from God, it’s worth everything.
Don’t settle for redemption without purpose. Lean into the reason you were redeemed. Abide in Christ. Trust the process. And when the time is right, walk boldly in the good works God prepared for you.
You are not here by accident. You are not saved without purpose. You are called—for such a time as this. Life Christian University is standing by to assist you in fulfilling you calling.
