What if My Calling Doesn’t Look “Spiritual”?

“She is so gifted.”

“I just work at a restaurant.”

“Wow, I’m not doing that.”

I have heard so many statements like these. These words often suggest that what one is doing is not enough. The subtle undertones are inherently comparative; in identifying a perceived weakness in ourselves or a strength in someone else, we imply that our callings are not as good as another’s.

Is one profession or daily duty more “spiritual” than the others? What is the definition of “successful”? And furthermore, does every season of life look like what we think is “success”? If questions like these have troubled you, you are 1) not alone, and 2) in good standing for understanding—questions are the gate to the road of understanding.

What Makes a Calling “Spiritual”?

First, I would like to challenge the belief that the only “spiritual” callings are those that involve full-time, performative, or otherwise renowned ministry. While I absolutely appreciate the essential callings of our pastors, evangelists, and missionaries, I believe it would be remiss to limit spirituality to a handful of life purposes.

Jesus and the disciples were often supported by saints who opened their homes to them (e.g. Mark 7:17, 24). Publicans were called out to serve God (Luke 3:12-13; Luke 5:12; Luke 19). Soldiers and officials came to him (Luke 3:14; Matthew 8; Acts 8). If you work in the home, collect taxes, or serve your country, you are in good company with Jesus.

Were these people spiritual? A Roman soldier was touted as having the greatest faith in all Israel by Jesus (Matthew 8). He wasn’t a preacher or a talented musician (that we know of), but he certainly obeyed Jesus’ will and instruction.

The Bible says we must do everything “as unto the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). If this is true, every calling and every action is a spiritual one. If you are in relationship with Jesus Christ and following His will every day, you are living out the call for your life.

Understanding the Balance of Life

One must also understand there are seasons in life, each one successful in its own way. Paul made tents (Acts 18). Peter, James, and John were fisherman (Luke 5). Jesus spent the first thirty years of His life as a carpenter (Luke 3:23). Learning His trade, supporting His family, and contributing to His community were His focus for about 90% of His time on earth. In fact, when His mother told Him to perform a miracle, He responded that it was not His time (John 2).

If you spent only 10% of your life doing outward ministry, would you feel successful? Ponder that. Life is full of seasons and your calling may not look the same in each one.

God is Limitless

We often complicate the will of God, but it is actually quite simple. The Word instructs us to: 1) love the Lord with all our heart, and 2) love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-40). Don’t limit God. Instead, let Him lead you in a daily walk, no matter the season, profession, or calling He leads you to.