Is Ministry My Calling?
Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! – 1 Corinthians 9:16

If you sense a calling to start a new ministry, you may feel blessed and excited — but dually anxious. You may ask: Is this my true calling? How do I know? What if I’m wrong?

To help you listen for the still voice of the Holy Spirit, try asking these questions.

1) Do I feel a gentle, but persistent, tugging at my heart? A burning desire? Does it refuse to go away, even when I ignore it? Help me know Your will, Lord.

2) When other people say I should go into ministry, does it feel right? Does hearing it satisfy my soul, or my ego? Help me look beyond my ego, Lord.

3) Do I associate status and power with the ministry? Is this my desire, fueled by ambition? Am I wanting to serve or to be served? Help me surrender to You, Lord.

4) Am I listening for the calling with an open heart? Or does “selective hearing” keep me from seeing either my gifts or my own limitations? Help me stay honest, Lord.

5) What strengths will help me in my calling? What weaknesses will need special attention? Give me wisdom, Lord.

You are the only one who will know, with certainty, whether you are called to ministry. Friends and family may question you, or may offer support. But, ultimately, only what God reveals to you matters. So be grounded in prayer. Within your relationship with God, you will find the confirmation you need.