Have you ever wondered if you’re refusing God’s call? Not intentionally, perhaps, but maybe in small, persistent ways that add up over the years. When we read the stories of the Bible, we encounter moments where individuals resist God’s call. Often, these refusals are presented in a few brief verses. Jonah hops on a ship. Moses argues with God. Jeremiah protests. But what if these acts of defiance or hesitation stretched over years, even decades? Could the short accounts in Scripture hint at a long, painful process of avoidance? And if so, what might be the consequences for us if we’re doing the same?
What Is God’s Call?
God’s call might not always look like the dramatic moment Saul experienced on the road to Damascus, blinded by light and overwhelmed by divine presence. More often, it could be a quiet nudge toward a purpose uniquely suited to our gifts—a vocari, or life’s calling. This might manifest as a desire to serve others, pursue a particular path, or take on a challenge that stretches and refines us. It’s often something that resonates deeply with who we are and who we are meant to be.
Yet, answering this call is rarely easy. It may require stepping into uncertainty, overcoming fear, or facing criticism. The temptation to dodge it, to delay or deny it, can be strong. But what happens when we resist?
The Impact of Refusing God’s Call
When we avoid what we know in our hearts we’re meant to do, we often feel its effects. There’s a sense of despondency, a nagging discontent. Life becomes muted, as though we’re out of tune with the melody we’re supposed to be playing. The longer we resist, the greater the toll on our spirit. Could it be that much of the restlessness or dissatisfaction we experience comes from avoiding the very thing that would bring us peace and purpose?
The Bible offers us glimpses of what it looks like to resist—and eventually submit to—God’s call. Let’s consider a few examples.
1. Jonah: Running in the Opposite Direction
Jonah’s story is one of outright rebellion. Called by God to preach repentance to the wicked city of Nineveh, Jonah fled in the opposite direction. His resistance brought a storm that endangered others and landed him in the belly of a great fish.
Why did Jonah refuse? Perhaps he feared the Ninevites, or perhaps he didn’t want to see them saved, knowing God’s compassion. Either way, his avoidance brought turmoil—not just to himself, but to those around him. It was only after Jonah submitted, albeit reluctantly, that he fulfilled his purpose.
The Lesson: Refusing God’s call often disrupts not just our lives but the lives of others. When we finally obey, we may discover that God’s plans are far greater than we imagined.
2. Moses: Doubts and Excuses
Moses’ encounter with God at the burning bush is iconic. But Moses’ initial response was a litany of excuses: “Who am I to do this?” “What if they don’t believe me?” “I’m not a good speaker.” Despite God’s reassurance and provision, Moses hesitated, even asking God to send someone else.
Yet, when Moses finally stepped into his calling, he became one of the greatest leaders in history, delivering the Israelites from slavery and guiding them toward the Promised Land.
The Lesson: God often equips us for the tasks He calls us to, even when we feel inadequate. Avoiding the call may mean missing out on the transformative power of trusting Him.
3. Gideon: A Reluctant Warrior
Gideon’s story is one of fear and doubt. When God called him to deliver Israel from the Midianites, Gideon questioned his worthiness and sought repeated signs to confirm the call. Despite his initial hesitation, Gideon ultimately obeyed, leading a small army of 300 to an extraordinary victory.
The Lesson: God’s call may ask us to step out of our comfort zones and trust Him in ways that defy logic. In doing so, we can accomplish far more than we think possible.
4. Jeremiah: “I Am Too Young”
When God called Jeremiah to be a prophet, Jeremiah resisted, citing his youth and inexperience. But God assured him, saying, “Do not be afraid…for I am with you and will rescue you” (Jeremiah 1:8). Jeremiah went on to become a bold voice for God in a time of great turmoil.
The Lesson: Age, experience, or skill are not barriers to God’s call. What matters is our willingness to trust and obey.
Are You Dodging God’s Call?
How do you know if you’re resisting God’s call? In each of these biblical stories, the individuals knew deep down what they were supposed to do. Yet, fear, self-doubt, and concern for others’ opinions held them back. We often experience the same struggle. That nagging feeling that we should be doing something—that there’s a step we’re meant to take—might be a sign of God’s call. But are we listening? Or are we too busy rationalizing, delaying, or running in the opposite direction?
The Secret to Purpose
Answering God’s call doesn’t guarantee an easy life. Jonah, Moses, Gideon, and Jeremiah all faced challenges. But it does lead to a life of alignment and purpose—a life that resonates with who we truly are. When we stop resisting, we find that the path we were avoiding is the one that brings the deepest sense of fulfillment.
So, I’ll leave you with this question: Is there something you’ve been avoiding, something you feel in your heart you’re meant to do? Call it God’s call, your true vocation, or the song your soul is meant to sing. Whatever you name it, the question remains the same. Are you resisting it? And if so, what might happen if you chose instead to embrace it?
This is worth pondering. Because the answer might just change your life.
