We must never confuse the calling of God with the inerrancy of God.
Many men and women with a distinct calling from God have also been fallible. Paul says:
1 Timothy 1:15
This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.
In 177 the great Christian Irenaeus studied gnosticism — which taught, among other things, that “salvation can be attained by learning special, secret teachings.” Iraneus said about them:
“As soon as a man has been won over to their way of salvation, he becomes so puffed up with conceit and self-importance that he struts about with the air of a rooster.”
We do not have to go to theology school to follow Christ. We can simply read the New Testament and see it unfold as we pray and seek God with all of our heart.
Irenaeus taught, “All the truth we need is embodied in the Bible.” Jesus says,
Mark 4:22
For there is nothing hidden which will not be revealed, nor has anything been kept secret but that it should come to light.
Do not feel that you have to be a know it all. In fact,
1 Corinthians 1:27
But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty;
Isn’t it wonderful that Christianity can be understood by a child? In fact, Jesus says:
Mark 10:15
Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.”
This is exciting for me because it means that I can be used by God! I know that I know nothing except the grace of Jesus Christ.
When someone is called but “runs over” everyone else — is that Christlike? Although we feel a strong calling, we must never think we are perfect!
Pray for the Olympic SBC volunteers today!
Lord, help us remember that we are humans and are fallible. Forgive us when we hurt others as we seek to follow our calling. Our calling will never cause us to contradict Your word in how we treat our family and friends. Please be with our SBC volunteers, our missionaries, and pray for you to reach the Tuareg people through your divine hand. Thank you that you reveal your Word openly to children! I love you, Jesus. In Jesus name. Amen.