“How do I know what God wants me to do?” This is a question that people of all ages ask – from teens finishing high school to retirees finishing their careers.
First, God has called all of us who are believers in Him to do the same thing: live a life that glorifies God in all that we do. This is of primary importance. I have had several different occupations in my life – day care worker; bank teller; stay-at-home mom; missionary; teacher; writer – but in every one of those jobs, I was first and foremost a follower of Christ. If you aren’t seeking Him in ALL you do, nothing you do will be truly satisfying.
If you are seeking Him, and you’re looking to begin, or maybe change, a career, here are a couple questions to ask:
“What do you like?” God won’t call you to something you hate. He might call you to something you’ve never thought of, or never imagined yourself doing. But it won’t be a job you hate. So think about what interests you: My love for reading led me to major in literature, which ultimately led to my jobs as both an English teacher and a writer. My husband’s passion for the word of God led him to seminary, where he trained to be a professor of the Bible. One of my favorite former students, Janell, took the love she’s always had for science, combined with her deep compassion for others, and chose a career in the medical field.
The second question is, “Where does God put you?” For me, from the time I turned my life over to Him, God kept giving me opportunities to teach. From VBS to Sunday school to Bible studies…age sixteen on, I was thrown in situations where I needed to teach. I didn’t see it at the the time, but looking back, I know it was God preparing me, showing me what He made me to do and helping me to get better at that. So where does God put you? Are you often asked to help organize events? To care for the hurting? Do people always come to you for advice? Consider the places and situations God places you in, in the present, and evaluate what that may mean for your future.
Don’t be among the people – young and old alike – who choose a job because of the prestige it may bring or the salary it may pay. Seek God’s direction. He knows exactly what you should be doing.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jer. 29:11
