We live in a world overflowing with books, articles, TED Talks, and—yes—even blog posts like this one, all urging us to “find our purpose,” “live our calling,” and “make a dent in the universe.” It’s a message relentlessly echoed by thought leaders, preachers, influencers, and armchair philosophers on social media. While some of their wisdom has merit, the sheer volume often leaves the modern-day pilgrim overwhelmed, confused, and discouraged. I am not discounting either when God also calls certain people to singular purposes/calling miraculously for the saving of many - Joseph, Moses, Paul the list in history is long as well... but for the majority of us its not often easy to find our calling as we go through umpteen transitions in life be it mini, micro or macro level shifts.
During my quiet time this morning, I found myself drawn to Psalm 81, particularly verse 10:
"I am the Lord your God who brought you out of Egypt. Open wide your mouth and I will fill it."
We all experience our own versions of Egypt—seasons of wilderness, disorientation, or pain. And yet, it’s in these very places that God draws near. He brings us out, fills us, sustains us, and walks with us—if we allow Him to. The key isn't striving for purpose but participating in His work through surrendered partnership.
This reflection led me to consider the culture we’ve created around "calling." We often chase it like a career objective, a singular mission, or some grand impact we’re meant to have. But what if calling isn’t about a job title, a platform, or making a mark that the world recognizes?
What if we’ve missed the point?
Don’t get me wrong—I’ve read the books, followed the steps, and admired the wisdom of those who’ve gone before me. Their guidance has shaped parts of my journey. But tonight, I find myself longing for something deeper: to live and breathe in such a way that God’s nature flows through me—wherever I am, in whatever role or season I find myself.
The Father’s plans aren’t about perfect decisions; they’re about perfecting intimacy. His desire is for a relationship, not performance. As we walk with Him, He slowly forms our convictions and builds our character—sometimes through leaps forward, sometimes through the humbling process of unlearning.
Here’s the quiet revelation I’m sitting with tonight:
Calling unfolds as we walk with God. Not as we strategize, optimize, or overanalyze our way into significance.
Every season, every role, every misstep and relationship—whether “right” or “wrong”—becomes sacred ground where the Spirit teaches us His ways and reveals the image we are being transformed into. I think of Eustace from C.S. Lewis’s Voyage of the Dawn Treader—his transformation was slow, painful, but necessary. The scales had to come off before he could become who he truly was.
I’ve wrestled often with the agony of significance, and I admit, it’s mostly self-inflicted—comparison and competition can do that. But here’s the freeing truth: I’m not behind. I’m not late. I haven’t missed my calling.
I am a child of God, right where I need to be.
Partnering with Him.
Becoming the kind of person who reveals His heart.
So maybe the better question isn’t “What is my calling?” but rather:
“Lord, how can I partner with You today?”
“What aspect of your character do you want to form in me now?”
Holy Spirit, help me represent Your heart in this season—faithfully, humbly, and fully.
Let me love Jesus the way the saints and beloved ones before me did.
Shalom and blessings,
Dr. Sam Kurien
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