Paul writes in I Corinthians 1:26 , “For consider your calling, brethren, that there were not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble.”
Paul commands the Corinthians to consider or contemplate their calling. The word “calling” refers to their position in the world when they first believed in Christ. This issue of calling is important to Paul. He believes that in order to become a Christian you must respond to God’s call.
Likewise, if you are a Christian today, it is because you have answered God’s call.
DADS, have you forgotten your calling? Memory can be a blessing or a curse. In our spiritual life, it can be very healthy to remember what life was like before we met Jesus. If you remember where you started, you’ll appreciate much more the grace God that has offered you to where you are today.
Do you remember where you came from?
Do you recall what you were doing when God saved you from yourself?
A preacher I listened to recently told a story about how he met with an 8-year-old boy in his congregation to talk to him about his baptism. He asked him how he became a Christian. He told him that God called him. He said, “Excuse me?” The preacher was used to hearing a lot of things, but this isn’t one of them. As he probed further it became clear that, like Samuel, this little 8-year-old boy heard the Lord calling him. Because of God’s call, this young boy believed in the One who was calling him.
This is exactly what God does. He calls men, women, and children to Himself.
DADS…God is calling you to be the DAD! A DAD for the Lord!
How do we “practice” this calling?
In Ephesians 4:2 we receive great instructions...
"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love."
DADS are His representatives, to be the light here on earth
How do we demonstrate this calling? Practice this calling?
What is the natural outcry or fruit of the spirit? Service.
Our acts of service that are within the calling are those things that unite us.
Our acts of service that are within the calling allow us to see the different gifts we each bring to the table to further His Kingdom.
What often gets in the way of acknowledging other’s gifts and keeps us from service is the “danger of the single story.” The single story creates stereotypes, preconceived ideas based on our premise.
Paul continues in Ephesians 4:3-4 "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."
Paul again was being proactive. He is saying…these are the things that we must do as Christians so that we remain united in this body.
"There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called;"
DADS heeding this calling can be evident in your “Daily-Active-Devotion” to your kids and family.
I Corinthians 15:58 - NIV
"Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."
