Answering the Call

Justin Murff
Admissions Recruiter, Robertson School of Government

“Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” Isaiah 43:19

The beginning of the semester brings a sense of newness, excitement, and a healthy dose of trepidation for others. Beginning a graduate degree is challenging enough, but starting a graduate education at Regent University includes the preparation to answer the unique calling that God has on our lives. Stretching beyond the mere academic rigor of the normal grad school experience, Regent students are called to prepare for the fulfillment of their role in God’s plan for the nations through the integration of faith and learning. The Apostle Paul teaches in his Epistle to the Romans that:

"There is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, for he is God's servant for your good." Romans 13:1-4

Many scholars would agree that this text refers to the governing authority as being God appointed. Oftentimes, people grumble about politicians and bureaucrats using the negative stereotypes that have become associated with those in leadership. But, one can often wonder if those leaders are just the second, third, or one hundredth choice in God’s economy. Many gripe and complain about the government and its leaders, but few rise to the occasion to make the bold declaration like Isaiah did when he cried out, “Here am I Lord, send me.” The Lord issues the calling; ultimately, it is our responsibility to answer the calling and step up and into the best plan that God has for our lives.

Answering the call to public service is not an easy task. It requires stewarding the awesome responsibility to govern and lead others. One key principle that must be learned is that the stewardship of leadership requires service above self. Answering the call to lead, govern, administrate, and serve our nations, our communities and those around us is not for the faint of heart. Alumni from RSG have served in positions from the White House to the City Hall and everywhere in between. When, we, as Christians serve others, love others, and diligently seek the Lord’s direction, it is no surprise that we find ourselves ministering in a unique arena that few are privileged to be called to. RSG students have the opportunity to walk the halls of government, intern in Congress, serve at numerous foundations, and glean knowledge from our professors every week who bring a wealth of personal experience that causes us to be acutely aware that as “God is doing a new thing” in our own lives.

As the semester wares on, take solace and comfort in the fact that it is the Lord who orders our steps, if we will only listen; for when we do, we can then begin to perceive the path that the Lord has for us. God may be calling you to be the next city council member, State Delegate, Governor, Congressman, Senator, or even President. Whatever you’re called to do, your journey begins here. Through diligent preparation, you will be used for His glory and that is the highest calling of all.