From Whisper to Whirlwind: The 6 Realities of a God-Called Life

David Avritt (CEO & Founder)

My Journey and the Six Paths of Calling

A Foundation Built on Prayer

When I first set my hand to the plough in establishing the CA Jail Outreach, I knew in my spirit that such a labor must have a foundation not of sand, but of solid rock; yes, a spiritual bedrock. I felt a deep compulsion, a stirring within, to seek a divine calling from the Almighty, that His hand might guide me in this weighty endeavour. This led me into seasons of earnest prayer, quiet meditation before the Lord, and diligent searching of the Scriptures to discern what the Bible teaches concerning God's calling and purpose for His children.

Through these dedicated studies and supplications poured out from a sincere heart, I did encounter profound insights within the Word of God, truths that resonated in the deepest chambers of my soul. A sense of purpose and a clarity hitherto unknown began to blossom, fueling a fervent passion to initiate this outreach. The wisdom and guidance I gleaned from Holy Writ infused me with the strength of spirit and a steadfast conviction to press forward with this mission. "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure." (Philippians 2:13).

Reflecting upon that transformative season of earnestly seeking God's particular summons for my life, I am powerfully reminded of the indispensable virtues of faith, of steadfast perseverance, and of humble obedience in the fulfilling of our God-given purpose. The establishment of CA Jail Outreach was not merely a sequence of practical undertakings; nay, it was a spiritual pilgrimage, invigorated by a profound apprehension of divine guidance and a holy purpose. My soul overflows with gratitude for the enlightenment and inspiration vouchsafed unto me during that process, and I am eager to share this hard-won wisdom with others who may be earnestly seeking their divine calling.

A Spark from a Giant of Faith

Years passed, during a visit to the Billy Graham Library, my eyes fell upon a saying that did strike a resonant chord deep within me: “God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called.” This truth settled upon my heart, for in truth, I have oft found myself in a supporting role, as an under-shepherd, diligently gleaning invaluable lessons from those set over me in the Lord.

Yet, in this present season, I feel a stirring, an inspiration to embrace a more active part in my spiritual walk and service. Though I cannot with certainty name the precise reason for this inner quickening—whether it be that my skills have been refined to better align with the Master’s standards, or that God is pleased with the trials I have faced, or simply that His appointed time has now arrived—I am confident in this: the Bible doth reveal at least six distinct manners by which a soul may be called. Permit me, dear reader, to share this inspiring message with thee.

The King's Summons: Discerning the Diverse Paths of Divine Calling

"For many are called, but few are chosen." (Matthew 22:14)

The journey of faith is oft marked by a deep yearning within the soul to understand the will of the Almighty and to walk in the specific path He hath ordained for us. This divine summons, this heavenly calling, is not a singular note played in the same manner for every heart, but rather a rich symphony with diverse melodies and intricate harmonies. The Lord, in His infinite wisdom, doth draw His children unto His purpose through manifold ways, each suited to the vessel He intends to use. As we seek to serve Him more perfectly, it is profitable to consider the varied manners in which His call may be revealed, that we might have ears to hear and hearts to obey.

Let us then delve into six distinct manners of divine calling which the Holy Scriptures and the experiences of the saints do illuminate:

1. The Damascus Road Call: A Sudden and Mighty Manifestation

This summons is often marked by a clear and unmistakable sign from heaven, yes, a miraculous event or a potent manifestation of God’s very voice, leading to a life-altering transformation and a renewed, vigorous sense of purpose. Think ye of Saul of Tarsus, journeying with zealous fury, only to be struck down by a light from heaven, and hearing the voice of the Lord Jesus Himself (Acts 9:3-6). In a moment, his life's trajectory was irrevocably altered; the persecutor became the apostle.

Such a call is a profound interruption of the ordinary, a divine intervention that leaves no room for doubt as to its origin. It may come as a blinding flash of insight, an undeniable encounter, or a word spoken with such clarity it pierces the very soul. The weight of such a direct encounter is immense, often leading to an immediate and radical reordering of one's life and priorities. It is a testament that "the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword" (Hebrews 4:12), able to change the heart of stone into a heart of flesh in an instant. One who receiveth such a call is oft thrust quickly into the Lord’s work, bearing the fresh印 of a divine encounter.

2. The Progressive Call: A Gradual Unfolding of Purpose

A common form of calling in these latter days, it unfoldeth itself by degrees, guiding a soul to perceive that full-time ministry, or a particular service, is his appointed lot and vocation. To embrace this purpose requires much patience, spiritual discernment, and an unwavering trust in God's unfolding plan. This is not a sudden thunderclap, but rather the gentle dawning of the sun, growing brighter with time. "The path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day" (Proverbs 4:18).

I confess that my own heart deeply resonates with this Progressive Call, a journey that may span many years, gradually revealing the path to my true vocation in full-time ministry. It involves seasons of learning, small obediences, trials, and tests, each step shaping and preparing the soul for what is to come. One may serve in various capacities, feeling a growing inclination, a deepening burden, or a consistent affirmation through the fruits of their quiet labours. "For we walk by faith, not by sight." (2 Corinthians 5:7). This path teacheth a profound reliance on the Spirit’s gentle leading and the quiet assurance that He who hath begun a good work will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.

3. The Call From Birth: An Innate Sense of Divine Appointment

Specific individuals perceive their calling unto the ministry or a specific divine purpose from their tenderest years, accepting it wholly and without hesitation. This lifelong commitment echoeth the sacred histories of prophets like Jeremiah, of whom the Lord Himself testified, "Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations" (Jeremiah 1:5). Likewise, Samuel was dedicated to the Lord from infancy and heard His voice while yet a child (1 Samuel 3).

For such souls, there is often no single moment of dramatic calling, but rather an abiding awareness, a deep-seated conviction that they were fashioned for this very purpose. Their upbringing, inclinations, and the providential workings of God in their lives consistently seem to point in one direction. This is a profound mystery that God should set His mark upon a life so early, nurturing a sense of destiny that shapes their identity from the very beginning. It is a powerful reminder that "the gifts and calling of God are without repentance" (Romans 11:29).

4. The Set-Apart-By-The-Church Call: Communal Affirmation of Gifts

The Lord God doth oft speak through the congregation of saints, the Church community, affirming an individual's spiritual gifts and God-given talents. This communal discernment, when guided by godly elders and the leading of the Spirit, fosters a deep sense of belonging and purpose, reinforcing our sacred connection to the household of faith. It was the elders of the church at Antioch who, after fasting and prayer, "laid their hands on them [Saul and Barnabas], and sent them away" for the work to which the Holy Ghost had called them (Acts 13:2-3).

This manner of calling underscores the importance of the Body of Christ. No man is an island unto himself, and God often uses the wisdom and discernment of fellow believers to confirm His will. When others consistently recognize and affirm specific gifts in an individual, and when the individual’s heart resonates with this affirmation, it can be a powerful confirmation of God’s leading. This requires humility on the part of the one being called to receive such counsel, and significant responsibility on the part of the church to discern prayerfully. As it is written, "Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety." (Proverbs 11:14).

5. The Open Door Call: Divine Providence in Unexpected Opportunities

At times, unexpected doors of opportunity are opened by Providence, leading to a lifelong dedication to the ministry or a significant path of service. A transformative experience, such as a mission sojourn to foreign lands, an unforeseen invitation to teach or lead, or even a challenging circumstance that reveals a hidden strength, can ignite the call to step boldly into a life of dedicated service. The Apostle Paul himself oft spake of open doors given him by the Lord for the furtherance of the Gospel (1 Corinthians 16:9, 2 Corinthians 2:12).

This calling requires a heart that is watchful and responsive to God's movements in the world around us. It is not always a path charted from the beginning, but one where faith steps out upon the waters when a door is presented. As the Spirit saith unto the church in Philadelphia, "Behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it" (Revelation 3:8). One must ask for wisdom to discern which open doors are genuinely of the Lord, and then the courage to walk through them, trusting that He who opens the door will also provide the means to fulfill the task.

6. The Jonah Calling: Overcoming Resistance to Embrace Purpose

When a spirit of resistance or reluctance doth arise within, it is oft a sign that one is, like Jonah, attempting to hide from the presence of the Lord, hesitant to embrace the calling appointed. Jonah was explicitly called to go to Nineveh, yet he "rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD" (Jonah 1:3). Yet, God, in His sovereign wisdom and tender mercy, intervenes to gently, or sometimes firmly through tempestuous trials, guide that soul back unto His purpose and calling.

This manner of summons reminds us that God's divine plans cannot be thwarted; even in our seasons of doubt or flight, His will ultimately prevails, teaching us the blessedness of surrendering to His wisdom and trusting the journey He has ordained. The story of Jonah is not merely one of disobedience, but also of God's relentless pursuit and His desire to use even a reluctant servant for His glory. It teaches us that though we may falter, "if we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself." (2 Timothy 2:13). Our resistance often stems from fear, from self-doubt, or a desire for our comfort, but the Lord's grace is sufficient to overcome these, and His strength is made perfect in our weakness.

Your Calling Awaits: How Volunteering Can Light the Way

Have you felt a nudge towards something more, a sense that you're meant to contribute in a specific way? Hearing and understanding your calling is a deeply personal journey that can unfold at any moment. If you're seeking clarity or wondering where to begin, we wholeheartedly encourage you to explore through volunteering and engaging with different ministries.

This hands-on approach is often the most effective way to discern where your heart truly resonates. At CA Jail Outreach, we consistently see the incredible impact made by individuals willing to lend a hand, and we always need passionate hearts like yours.

Please, never give up on the calling you feel developing within you. It’s a precious thing. Remember, reaching the full potential of that call sometimes requires dedicated time for growth and specialized training. The journey itself is part of the preparation for the destination.

We pray God’s richest blessings upon you as you seek His direction. We are excited by the prospect of partnering with you as you put your talents and passions to work.