Leadership Quote by Richard Blackaby
““Some leadership proponents suggest leaders should determine their talents and their passion, and in so doing they determine their calling. They argue if you understand the passion God has given you and you identify the gifts God placed in your life, then you can deduce the kinds of things God has prepared you to do. The problem with this line of thinking is the lack of biblical support. Consider Moses herding sheep in the wilderness. Had he discovered his gifts and passions, he would never have returned to Egypt to deliver the Hebrews. But that was God's agenda. Second, it is tempting to assume God wants us to do things we enjoy and are good at doing. However, for God to accomplish his purposes, he may ask us to do things we do not consider enjoyable (he asked his Son to die on a cross), but they are necessary tasks for God's will to be fulfilled. It's great to be passionate about the work you do. However, spiritual leaders are driven by God, not their passion and talents.””
About This Quote
Source Sermon: Discovering God's Call, Richard Blackaby, 2015
True purpose comes from aligning with God's will, not merely personal passion or talent. Faith requires obedience even when tasks are uncomfortable or contrary to personal desires.
In simple terms: Purpose is God‑driven, not self‑driven.
Key Takeaway
Seek God's direction above personal preference.
Themes
faith
purpose
obedience
leadership
Mood
reflective
serious
inspirational
Type
theological
motivational
cautionary
When to use this quote
- ministry decisions
- career decisions
- volunteering
- life choices
Key Concepts
divine calling
spiritual discernment
theology of vocation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you discern when God is calling you beyond your comfort zone?
- What sacrifices might be required to follow divine purpose?
A Different Perspective
God may call you to work that feels contrary to your gifts, challenging self‑identity.
