Glen and Donna Schroeder were the Youth Pastors at Anaheim Vineyard. They came to speak with us about developing a lifestyle of ministry. I find learning to hear God’s voice to be difficult—at least I felt that way at first. I often complained to God that He spoke to others but not to me. However, as I advanced in my role as a senior pastor, I began to see a pattern in how God communicates. The goal is to be supernatural in a natural way."

 

I remember some conversations clearly. I spoke words, I felt, were from the Lord. Yet, none has ever told me that they remember those conversations. But many have approached me, sharing how certain words I spoke affected them. I don't recall any of those specific conversations, which they find notable. I suppose that’s what it means to be supernaturally natural.

 

I never felt called by God. But, I followed my heart as a Christian without hesitation. In Matthew 22:14, it says, "Many are called, but few are chosen." What does that mean for me? On Glen Schroeder’s second day with us, he spoke about "The Call of God."

 

There is often a lot of uncertainty surrounding whether one is truly called. We need to differentiate between an occupation and a calling. What am I called to? How will I respond to that call? Will I be the one who says “Yes!”? It’s worth noting that Eli had to teach Samuel how to hear God’s voice.

 

I am reminded of when I woke up in the middle of the night in November 1991 with the words "Yeovil 7,000 Rand" in my mind. How did I know that was from God? I spent a lot of time contemplating it. Usually, you wake from a dream, and the words relate to that dream. However, this wasn’t a dream; those were two unrelated words. I tried to make sense of it until one day my eyes fell on an old encyclopaedia. I felt prompted to look up Yeovil, and what I discovered resonated deeply with a yearning in my heart.

 

It is a daunting experience when God calls you. I felt inadequate, a feeling that many people share. Even Moses felt this way. Some express their feelings more vocally. Others may take a quieter, behind-the-scenes approach. We tend to view others as more significant than ourselves, but God disregards issues of self-esteem and calls you according to His divine purposes.

Glen shared that those chosen by God are often rejected by people. I held on to the words: "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong" 1 Corinthians 1:27. God often calls individuals from a young age; for instance, Hendrik was called at seven years old.

 

Sometimes, the call can seem outrageous. Why would He call me, a divorced and single woman? The call often comes with a supernatural experience, accompanied by God arranging circumstances. I received only the word "Yeovil," yet somehow, He led me there.

 

Following the call of God often leads to a period of testing. Some may feel tempted to abandon the call and return to the world. You might drag your feet, but you will eventually pursue your calling. I waited seventeen years, knowing I couldn’t fulfil it without the Lord’s help. But He granted me the patience to wait.

 

Character is fundamentally tied to the response to the call of God, and for me, this meant everything. Joseph's response to temptation was to escape it, despite the cost. This showcased his true character.

 

Walking within the call of God instils humility. Joseph forgot about his dream of his brothers bowing before him at first. It was only when he saw them standing before him that he remembered the dream.

 

I agree with millions of believers who fear God. They affirm that the Mighty One has done great things for those who love Him. I often feel I don’t deserve these blessings. It is because of His incredible mercy alone.