When we hear someone mention “a call of God” on their life, many believers immediately think of traditional ministry roles—pastors, missionaries or worship leaders. But according to John and Lisa Bevere, this is a narrow and incomplete understanding of God’s design for His people.
“That might be 3% of people,” John says, highlighting that only a small fraction are called to full-time church ministry.
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God’s call is far more expansive. It encompasses every sphere of life—business, education, government, healthcare, the arts and even parenting. The kingdom of God is not confined to a church building; it permeates society through believers who carry His presence and purpose wherever they go. Whether you are designing buildings, raising children or advocating for justice, God’s call is active in your life when you surrender it to Him.
Disengagement and the Danger of Drifting
A sobering truth John Bevere shares is this: “Most people backslide because they disengage from what they’re called to do.”
When believers lose connection with their God-given purpose, their spiritual strength weakens, leaving them open to distraction, discouragement and deception. Just as physical nourishment is essential for the body, purpose is essential for the soul.
When we step away from our divine assignment, we begin to starve spiritually. The drift often begins subtly—disappointment, weariness, or fear may cause us to step back—but over time, it can lead to a crisis of faith. That’s why remaining engaged in our purpose is not a luxury; it’s a lifeline.
Everyone Has a God-Given Calling
Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that “we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” This verse confirms what John and Lisa passionately teach—every believer has a calling. God is not random; He is intentional.
Before you were born, He designed your life with a unique assignment in mind. Psalm 139:16 echoes this truth: “All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be.” Jesus declared, “Many are called,” and as John Bevere points out, “That means everyone has a calling. Few are chosen because few respond.”
The difference isn’t in God’s invitation—it’s in our willingness to answer the call. Have you said yes to God’s call, or have you run in the opposite direction of it?
Calling Isn’t Always Glamorous
Sometimes the Lord will ask us to do things that are far from the spotlight, away from luxuriousness. Lisa Bevere shares a deeply personal example of how her calling during one season was to stay at home with her children. “It was the hardest and most rewarding thing I’ve ever done,” she recalls.
There were no applause or accolades, no titles or trophies—but it was obedience. And that’s what matters most to God. Too often, we measure success by visibility or popularity, but heaven measures obedience. Your assignment may be hidden or humble, but if it’s God’s will for your life, it carries eternal weight. Don’t underestimate the impact of your “yes” in the small things.
Start Small, Stay Faithful
John shares how he once resisted ministry, even when prophetic voices confirmed his calling. He had to grow into his assignment one obedient step at a time. “You start small and believe big,” Lisa Bevere says. God rarely reveals the whole picture at once. Instead, He gives “just enough light for the step you’re on.”
Like David tending sheep or Joseph serving in prison, our early steps often feel ordinary. But those moments are sacred. Faithfulness in the hidden places prepares us for future influence. God tests our hearts with small assignments before trusting us with more.
No matter your stage of life, profession or background—God has called you. Your life holds divine significance. As John puts it, “With calling comes grace and gifts tailored to your assignment.”
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You don’t have to strive to be someone else. You simply have to say yes to who God created you to be. Your calling is not about fame—it’s about faithfulness. Discipleship unlocks your calling, and calling fuels your perseverance. As you walk in obedience, you’ll find strength, identity and joy in doing what you were born to do.
Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.
