It's fine saying the Holy Spirit communicates in unexpected moments through feelings of holy dissatisfaction or the desire to give birth to something inside of us, but many of us will struggle to believe it.
Would God really tell us to pursue something we are excited about?
We doubt God is that good and/or suspect he would only call us to something more “spiritual” or “evangelistic” than following our own dreams. We can see this in how Christians rarely—if ever—use "calling" outside of becoming a pastor or a missionary.
By linking calling with a form of "professional Christian ministry," we limit God's call to a small group of Christians instead of opening it up to everyone.
Yet, Abram wasn't even a follower of God when he was called!
Not only do we dismiss the Holy Spirit's promptings as our own voice rather than God's, we also ignore our dreams in fear of polluting God's plan for us.
Notice how guidance is usually about seeking God's plan:
“I’m waiting for confirmation that this is God’s will before I go for it.”
“It’s not about what I want; it’s about what God wants.”
Therefore, it's common to hear Christians convey the idea that God is asking them to surrender or sacrifice their dreams as an act of faith or obedience. But what kind of father asks his kids to prove their love or loyalty by giving up the things that bring them joy?
Oh right, God asks Abram to do that very thing.
Or does he?
