From Serving to Stepping Into Your Calling

Pastor Alex Hall | Original Sermon: August 17, 2025 WATCH

Life often unfolds in seasons, each with its unique purpose and lessons. As we journey through these seasons, it's crucial to recognize where we are and embrace what God is doing in our lives. Today, let's explore the profound journey from serving to stepping into our divine calling.

The story of Elijah and Elisha in the Bible offers us a powerful illustration of this journey. Elisha, a successful farmer with a thriving business, was suddenly called to a new purpose when Elijah threw his mantle upon him. This simple act was a divine invitation, a call to leave behind the familiar and step into a new season of serving and preparation.

Many of us can relate to Elisha's position. We may find ourselves comfortable in our current roles, whether in our careers, relationships, or ministries. But God often calls us to something greater, something that requires us to leave behind what we've known and step into the unknown.

The question is: Are we willing to respond as Elisha did? The Bible tells us that Elisha immediately left his oxen and ran after Elijah. He didn't hesitate or make excuses. Instead, he took decisive action, even going so far as to slaughter his oxen and burn his plowing equipment. This radical act symbolized his commitment to his new calling and ensured there was no turning back.

In our own lives, God may be calling us to make similar decisive moves. It might mean leaving a comfortable job, ending a relationship that's holding us back, or stepping out in faith to pursue a God-given dream. Whatever it is, embracing this new season often requires us to burn the bridges to our old life, trusting that what God has in store is far greater than what we're leaving behind.

But here's the critical part: before Elisha could fully step into his prophetic ministry, he had to go through a season of serving. For years, he was known simply as the one who "poured water on the hands of Elijah." This might seem like a menial task for someone destined for greatness, but it was a crucial part of Elisha's preparation.

Many of us struggle with seasons of serving. We may feel like our talents are being wasted or that we're capable of so much more. This is especially true for those in seemingly mundane roles – stay-at-home parents changing diapers, entry-level employees doing basic tasks, or volunteers doing behind-the-scenes work in ministry.

But here's the truth: these serving seasons are invaluable. They shape our character, teach us humility, and prepare us for the greater responsibilities to come. Jesus Himself said that He came "not to be served, but to serve." If serving wasn't beneath the King of Kings, how can it be beneath us?

The danger lies in becoming impatient or discontented in our serving seasons. The story of Gehazi, Elisha's servant, serves as a sobering warning. After witnessing a miraculous healing, Gehazi allowed greed to overcome him. He lied and sought personal gain, missing out on the greater calling God had for him. As a result, he not only lost his position but also received the very leprosy that had just been healed.

This story reminds us of the importance of integrity and patience in our serving seasons. God sees our faithfulness in the small things, and in His perfect timing, He will elevate us to greater responsibilities.

So how do we navigate these seasons successfully? Here are a few key principles:

1. Embrace loyalty: Elisha's unwavering loyalty to Elijah positioned him to receive a double portion of Elijah's spirit. Stay committed to where God has placed you, even when it's challenging.

2. Serve with excellence: Whatever your role, give it your all. Your attitude and effort in serving prepare you for future leadership.

3. Stay humble: Remember that no task is beneath you. Humility is a key attribute God looks for in those He promotes.

4. Be patient: Trust God's timing. Don't try to force your way into your "mantle season" before you're ready.

5. Keep your integrity: Like Gehazi, we may face temptations to take shortcuts or seek personal gain. Resist these urges and stay true to your calling.

6. Listen for God's voice: Regularly spend time in prayer and God's Word. This will help you discern when it's time to transition into a new season.

As we faithfully serve and wait, we can trust that God is preparing us for our "suddenly" moment. Just as Elijah was suddenly taken up in a whirlwind, our transition into our full calling may come unexpectedly. When that moment arrives, we'll be ready to pick up our mantle and step into all that God has prepared for us.

Remember, your current season, no matter how mundane it may seem, is crucial to your journey. Whether you're pouring water, changing diapers, or doing any other seemingly small task, you're being prepared for something greater. Don't miss your mantle because you despised your serving season.

In closing, let's reflect on this powerful truth: God is the God of suddenly. He can change your circumstances in an instant, elevating you from serving to leading, from preparation to purpose. But that sudden promotion comes after faithful service and patient waiting.

So, embrace your current season. Serve with joy, knowing that your faithfulness is not overlooked. And when the time comes, be ready to step into the fullness of your calling, taking up your mantle with confidence and grace. Your season of greatness may be just around the corner.