Don’t Waste Your Life – Four Phases of a Calling
What if the biggest threat to your calling isn’t failure—but comfort?
In this episode, Pastor Trent unpacks a powerful message from Acts 20:22–24 that reveals four phases every leader walks through when God calls them to step into something greater. If you’ve ever felt a divine nudge, battled fear of the unknown, or wondered how to move forward when life gets hard—this message is for you.
We’re not called to live a safe life. We’re called to live a significant one. Don’t settle for success that’s void of purpose. Learn to recognize the Spirit’s prompting, embrace uncertainty with confidence, endure opposition with faith, and live on mission with gospel urgency.
Key Scripture: “And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there… However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.” — Acts 20:22–24 (NIV)
In This Episode You’ll Learn:
- Why Deo Pneuma moments (being “compelled by the Spirit”) are critical to your calling
- How to move forward in “confident uncertainty” even when you don’t know what’s next • What to expect when opposition comes—and how to push through it
- Why a clear sense of mission matters more than comfort or security
- How to stop chasing success and start pursuing significance
- Practical leadership questions to ask yourself in every phase of your journey
- Why your story, your obedience, and your courage matter for God’s Kingdom
Episode Highlights:
- The Mission Beneath the Process - You’re not in a holding pattern. God is refining you for His purpose—today.
- Phase 1: A Nudge You Can’t Ignore – Learn how to discern the Holy Spirit’s prompting.
- Phase 2: Confident Uncertainty – Why God often gives light for only the next step.
- Phase 3: Expect Opposition – Faithfulness doesn’t guarantee ease. It guarantees resistance.
- Phase 4: A Mission That Matters More Than Comfort – Purpose always outweighs security.
Leadership Challenge: Identify which phase you’re in—and take your next step with courage.
Reflection Questions:
- What’s a God-given nudge you’ve been ignoring?
- Are you waiting on full clarity before stepping out in faith?
- How has fear, opposition, or comfort kept you from moving forward?
- What mission would you be willing to give your life to?
Challenge of the Week: God isn’t calling you to a safe life—but a significant one. Don’t waste your life. Take the next step He’s calling you to.
Resources Mentioned:
- Main Text: Acts 20:22–24 (NIV)
- Visit trentstewart.org to subscribe and get free access to the "How to Pray" video course.
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