PORTICO Community Church

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God's Calling Is Bigger Than Our Ambitions

God’s calling is a remarkable privilege for all who choose to serve Him. It comes with empowerment and purpose that extends beyond personal ambitions. The story of Samson in Judges 14 highlights the dangers of self-serving choices and the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit to fulfill God's calling.

Samson, a judge chosen by God from birth, possessed immense physical strength, intended to be used for Israel's deliverance. However, his immature and self-serving choices hindered him from fulfilling God's purpose. In Judges 14, Samson demanded a Philistine woman for marriage against God's command to marry within the Israelite community. This decision was rooted in his untamed desires and disregard for God's plan.

Samson's emotional choices reflect a petulant attitude, driven by self-centeredness. Instead of seeking God's guidance, he acted impulsively, leading to disastrous consequences. Proverbs 29:11 (NLT) emphasizes,

"Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back."

When we control our emotions and rely on the Holy Spirit's guidance, the Holy Spirit empowers us to fulfill God's calling, guiding us away from self-serving actions, and emotionally-driven choices,

"So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves." Galatians 5:16 (NLT)

When we choose to surrender to the Spirit's guidance, we can overcome our selfish tendencies and make choices that honor God's calling. Relying on the Holy Spirit enables us to conquer our untamed desires.

"Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit." Romans 8:5-6 (NLT)

God's calling is not about personal ambition but about serving His purpose. Let us strive to serve God selflessly, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and in doing so, fulfill the purpose He has ordained for our lives.