Understanding Your Calling

"I pray that ... you may know what is the hope of [God's] calling" (Ephesians 1:18)

The hope of your calling is grounded in God's promises and in Christ's accomplishments.

In Ephesians 1:3-14 Paul proclaims the blessings of our salvation. In verse 18 he prays that we will comprehend those great truths, which he summarizes in the phrase, "the hope of His calling."

"Calling" here refers to God's effectual calling - the calling that redeems the soul. Scripture speaks of two kinds of callings: the gospel or general call, and the effectual or specific call. The gospel call is given by men and is a universal call to repent and trust Christ for salvation (see Matthew 28:19; Acts 17:30-31). It goes out to all sinners, but not all who hear it respond in faith.

The effectual call is given by God only to the elect. By it He speaks to the soul, grants saving faith, and ushers elect sinners into salvation (John 6:37-44, 65; Acts 2:39). All who receive it respond in faith.

The hope that your effectual calling instills is grounded in God's promises and in Christ's accomplishments (1 Peter 1:3), and is characterized by confidently expecting and yet waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. It is your hope of final glorification and of sharing God's glory when Christ returns (Col. 3:4). It is a source of strength and stability amid the trials of life (1 Peter 3:14-15). Consequently it should fill you with joy (Romans 5:2) and motivate you to godly living (1 John 3:3).

As you face this new day, do so with confidence that you are one of God's elect. He called you to Himself and will hold you there, no matter what circumstances you face. Nothing can separate you from His love (Romans 8:38-39)!

Suggestions for Prayer: Thank God for the security of your salvation. Ask Him to impress on your heart the blessings and responsibilities of your calling. Live today in anticipation of Christ's imminent return.

For Further Study: Joshua's call to lead Israel was not a call to salvation, but it illustrates some important principles for spiritual leadership. You might not see yourself as a spiritual leader, but you are important to those who look to you as an example of Christian character.

Read Joshua 1:1-9 and then answer these questions: What were the circumstances of Joshua's call (v. 1-2)? What promises did God make to him (v. 3-6)? What did God require of him (v. 7-9)?

~John MacArthur~