6 lessons I've learned about how to discern God's call

Doug Hagedorn May 19, 2024

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The past year has been one of the most demanding and challenging periods in both my life and career. Relocating my family to a new area and starting afresh at a different company, with no existing support network nearby, was a decision we made after much contemplation and prayer.

We sought guidance, fasted, and fervently prayed for direction, and miraculously received three job offers on the same day. It was evident that doors were opening, and prayers were being answered. Fresh from completing my PhD in Leadership Studies, I felt invigorated and ready to embark on a journey of reinvention, eager to make a meaningful impact in a new environment. With such Divine alignment, what could possibly go wrong? 😊

During this trying period, God became my anchor. Supported by my wife and son, I found solace in their prayers and comforting presence. Despite being consumed by stress and anxiety, my desperation drove me to seek solace in my faith, reigniting my relationship with God. I found myself turning to Him daily, with no other recourse. Despite the challenges, this period of adversity served as a catalyst for spiritual renewal and a deeper connection with my faith.

As Charles Dickens aptly put it, "it was the worst of times and the best of times." Despite having weathered previous life-threatening challenges, including a severe heart condition that required a pacemaker and ablations, and a turbulent period involving a hostile takeover that threatened our school and marriage, this particular phase stood out as the darkest and most trying of my life.

Yet, thankfully, it was also a time of profound spiritual richness. Despite the turmoil, I found myself drawing closer to the Lord than I had in two decades. It became a period of sweet fellowship, where I sought solace in prayer and found rest in His arms. Praying the Psalms became my refuge, and God became my everything. In the midst of the storm, He was my constant source of strength and hope.

Here are some valuable lessons I gleaned during this season of life regarding one's calling:

1. Focus on Seeking God: Instead of obsessing over understanding the reasons behind challenging circumstances or God's timing, prioritize seeking God Himself—knowing Him, loving Him, and trusting Him.
2. Recognize the Dynamic Nature of Calling: A calling isn't a one-time revelation but an ongoing journey. Sometimes, your calling may manifest in unexpected ways or during difficult experiences, serving as opportunities for growth.
3. Embrace Servant Leadership in the Valleys: Your calling may not always lead to mountaintop experiences or align with your passions. Often, it involves rolling up your sleeves and serving faithfully in the midst of challenges, with a focus on God rather than personal desires. John 3:30
4. Practice Faithful Waiting: During seasons of waiting for God's guidance, maintain faithfulness and obedience. Instead of impatiently questioning or grumbling, adopt a quiet, expectant, and patient posture, trusting in His timing.
5. Engage in Active Waiting: While seeking clarity on your calling, remain active in prayer, ministry opportunities, and personal preparation. Trust that the right doors will open in due time.
6. Prioritize Spiritual Practices: Whether in times of abundance or scarcity, make spiritual disciplines a priority. Set aside time for solitude, silence, deep scripture study, and prayer to nurture your relationship with God.

Indeed, the word "prayer" can sometimes evoke images of dry, monotonous rituals or a hurried checkmark on a to-do list. However, I've discovered that prayer is far from being a one-sided conversation—it's a dynamic and deeply meaningful time with my Creator and my best Friend. Despite my past failures to pray, God awaits eagerly to spend time with me. During times of trial or uncertainty, I've found solace in praying the Psalms, especially when words fail me. Here are some insights on how to approach prayer during valley experiences or when seeking guidance for your next steps:

• Pray for God's Guidance: Seek His direction and leading in every aspect of your life (Proverbs 3:5-6).
• Pray for God's Wisdom: Ask for Divine wisdom to navigate challenges and make decisions (James 1:5).
• Pray for Clarity and Unity: Seek clarity and alignment with your spouse or other stakeholders, fostering unity in purpose and direction (Rom. 15:5-6).
• Pray for Surrender: Offer prayers of surrender, aligning your will with God's and trusting His perfect plan (Matt. 6:10).
• Pray with Quiet Trust: Know that God hears and responds to the cries of His children (Psalm 34:17).

God never called us to a life without struggle or turmoil, but He also never called us to live it alone (Deut. 31:8). Leadership and life do not have to be lonely. Prayer is not merely a duty but a privilege—a sacred opportunity to commune with our Creator who deeply cares for us and knows us by name (Isaiah 43:1). Jesus is interceding on your behalf right now (Rom. 8:26-27,34) calling your name out to the Father—be encouraged! A believer and leader's journey is one of faith, trust, and intimacy with the One who knows and loves you best. God is good all the time---and all the time God is good!

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Dr. Hagedorn is a seasoned Fortune 500 executive, professor, author, and leadership consultant. With a PhD in Leadership Studies from Dallas Baptist University and an MBA from the University of Dallas, he's authored three books, including "A Lasting Legacy" alongside a nationwide radio, columnist, and podcast presence. Doug's expertise extends to founding a private K-12 school, launching two businesses, and creating an online course on finding and fulfilling your why- creating meaning, purpose and legacy in life. Outside work, Doug cherishes family time, reading, and sports. Learn More »

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