“I think God calls people because He doesn't have a phone, so He has to call them in their hearts," says Lily, 5.
Romans 1:1-7 begins Paul’s letter with a powerful introduction: “Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle...” (Romans 1:1). This tells us something important about God’s calling.
"Because God doesn't want anyone to be left out," says Tessa, 9. "He wants everyone to be in His family."
That’s exactly right! Paul was chosen to tell people the good news about Jesus. But he wasn’t the only one God called. In Romans 1:6, Paul says, “among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ.” That means all believers are called, not just pastors or missionaries. If you believe in Jesus, you’ve been called, too!
"God called Paul because He had a job for him," says Carter, 10. "And God has a job for us, too."
When God calls, it means He invites us to be part of His plan. It’s not like being calling on in class. God’s calling is filled with love and purpose. He calls us into relationship with Him through Jesus, and He sets us apart for something special.
"When God calls you, it’s like He’s whispering a secret just for you," says Emma, 8. "He wants you to listen and do something special."
Saying yes to God means trusting Jesus as your Savior. The moment you do, you are part of His family. Romans 1:7 calls believers “beloved of God” and “called to be saints.” That doesn’t mean you have to wear a halo or be perfect. The word "saint" means someone who is set apart for God.
If you want to have some fun, try telling your friends that you’re a saint. Most people think sainthood is earned. Rather, it’s a gift God bestows on all who trust Jesus as savior. Jesus takes our sin and He gives us his righteousness. Do Christians always act saintly? No. But that doesn’t change their forgiven, righteous standing before God as his beloved children.
Bible teacher and author Charles Ryrie explained that God gives two kinds of calls. First, there’s the call to believe in Jesus for eternal life. That's how we join God's family.
Second, there’s the call to follow Jesus closely, which we call discipleship. Salvation is a free gift, but discipleship takes commitment. Both come from God's grace, but it's important to know that God saves us by grace through faith, not by how well we serve Him.
The best part? God’s calling is not based on how good you are. It’s based on how good Jesus is. Because of His death and resurrection, we can say yes to God’s call with confidence.
So, what is God calling you to do? If you don’t know Jesus as your savior, he is calling you to believe in him. Accept His gift of eternal life. Join God’s family today!
If you are a Christian, maybe God is calling you to be kind to someone. Maybe it’s to tell a friend about Jesus. Maybe it’s to trust Him when things are hard. Big or small, every calling matters.
Think About This: God calls you into His family and His purpose, not because you’re perfect, but because of His grace.
Memorize This Truth: "To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ" (Romans 1:7).
Ask This Question: What do you think God is calling you to do as part of His big plan?
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COPYRIGHT 2026 CAREY KINSOLVING
A New Hampshire Press Association member