Webster defines “calling” this way: “a strong inner impulse toward a particular course of action especially when accompanied by conviction of divine influence.” How does one come to know this “conviction?” God uses a number of means to bring us to recognize His “calling” -- He uses His Word and the Spirit's leading...He uses providence by orchestrating circumstances...He uses other people, particularly other believers who recognize God's calling in our lives...He gives us a burden (“a strong inner impulse”) to serve in some particular manner. “Callings” are individual not some response to “group think.” But here's the hard part...often, these “callings” will put us in ministries or services that are not spectacular or successful in our eyes. We must realize at least two things: 1) Faithful response to God's calling is what He desires from us. 2) God is sovereign in that He uses our “calling” in ways we could not have imagined or known.
These two truths are what we must keep before us or we become discouraged and doubting.

I think the hardest part of fulfilling God's purpose in our lives is that we are prone to be “results driven.” I know that “results / goals / objectives” are how we typically view ministries, but the fact is, if we are faithful to our “calling” we will be accomplishing His purpose...our service will never be void of very important significance in God's plan. The day will come when we are with God in glory that our eyes will be open and we will see the greatness of God's plan and our part in it. My prayer for you and me this day is this: Lord, we will serve You no matter how meager our contribution may seem to us. We will rest in the confidence we have in Your purpose for us. May we go out with great joy and knowledge of our “calling.” Amen.

Reminds me of another old hymn:

Would you have Him make you free, and follow at His call?
Would you know the peace that comes by giving all?
Would you have Him save you, so that you need never fall?
Let Him have His way with thee.

Would you in His kingdom find a place of constant rest?
Would you prove Him true in providential test?
Would you in His service labor always at your best?
Let Him have His way with thee.

Walk with the King today and be a blessing.