Divine Appointment

The concept of divine appointment refers to the belief that God orchestrates specific events, encounters, and circumstances in the lives of individuals to fulfill His purposes. This idea is rooted in the understanding of God's sovereignty and His active involvement in the world. Divine appointments are often seen as moments when God intervenes in human affairs to guide, direct, or provide opportunities for His people.

Scripture provides numerous examples of divine appointments. One notable instance is the meeting between Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8:26-40. The Holy Spirit directed Philip to go to a specific road where he encountered the eunuch reading the book of Isaiah. This meeting led to the eunuch's conversion and baptism, demonstrating how God orchestrates events for His purposes.

Another example is the account of Esther, who was placed in a position of influence as queen "for such a time as this" (Esther 4:14). Her role in saving the Jewish people from destruction highlights how God positions individuals strategically to accomplish His will.

Divine appointments are not limited to biblical times; believers today often testify to experiencing moments where they sense God's hand guiding their interactions and decisions. These appointments can lead to spiritual growth, ministry opportunities, or the fulfillment of God's promises.

Calling

The concept of calling in the Bible refers to God's invitation to individuals to fulfill a specific purpose or role in His kingdom. This calling can be general, such as the call to salvation and discipleship, or specific, such as a call to a particular ministry or vocation.

The general call to salvation is extended to all people. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus invites, "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" . This call to follow Christ is foundational for every believer and involves a commitment to live according to His teachings.

Specific callings are often accompanied by a sense of divine purpose and direction. The Apostle Paul, for example, speaks of his calling as an apostle in Romans 1:1, stating that he was "set apart for the gospel of God" . Similarly, the prophet Jeremiah was called by God before his birth, as recorded in Jeremiah 1:5: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as a prophet to the nations" .

The New Testament also emphasizes the diversity of callings within the body of Christ. In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul describes the various gifts and roles given to believers, illustrating that each person has a unique contribution to make to the church.

Understanding one's calling involves prayer, discernment, and often the confirmation of others within the Christian community. It requires a willingness to submit to God's will and to pursue the path He has laid out, trusting in His provision and guidance.

In summary, divine appointment and calling are integral aspects of the Christian faith, reflecting God's sovereign plan and purpose for His people. Through these, believers are invited to participate in God's work, both in their personal lives and in the broader mission of the church.