Called, Trained, and Equipped: A Reflection on Working With God

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Called, Trained, and Equipped: A Reflection on Working With God by Cindy Warner

I want to share something very dear to my heart—a truth that has grown even more meaningful to me over the years, especially as I’ve watched my husband Dick serve the Lord with faithfulness for more than 50 years.

God called Dick back in the early 1970s. Before he began his ministry, he attended Bible school, where God carefully trained and equipped him for the work ahead.

Although Dick isn’t called an apostle, he has faithfully carried out apostolic-type ministry, helping churches get established on a strong, biblical foundation.

His passion for this work has never faded. As he prepares to celebrate his 80th birthday next month—still full of energy—I am filled with gratitude for the journey God has led him on.

Jesus said, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Therefore pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest” (Matthew 9:37-38).

What stands out to me is that ministry isn’t about rushing in on our own. Jesus didn’t immediately send His disciples after calling them.

He first called them close, then trained and equipped them before sending them out into the harvest (Matthew 10:1).

That preparation is so important. Today, ministry can sometimes feel rushed and hurried.

But Jesus’ way was different.

He spent time with His disciples—teaching them, giving them authority, and guiding their service. Ministry is not just a task; it’s a calling that needs careful preparation.

One thing I’ve seen clearly in my husband’s life—and deeply believe—is that ministry is about working with God, not working for Him. 

That means letting God cleanse us, prepare us, and shape us into vessels ready for honorable use (2 Timothy 2:20-21).

“In a large house, there are articles not only of gold and silver but also of wood and clay; some are for special purposes, and some for common use. Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master, and prepared to do any good work.” (2 Timothy 2:20-21)

No matter how eager or gifted we are, without God’s shaping and preparation, we cannot be fully ready for all the good work He has planned for us.

Dick’s ministry beautifully shows this truth. God called him, trained him, and equipped him—and the fruit of that work is seen in the churches and lives he has helped.

If you feel called to serve, my encouragement is: don’t rush ahead relying on your own ability. Pray sincerely, listen for God’s voice, and allow Him the time needed to prepare you.

Be willing to be cleansed and made ready as a vessel fit for the Master’s use. When ministry is done with God, not for Him, it brings peace, joy, and lasting fruitfulness.

Closing Prayer: Lord, thank You for calling us into Your harvest field. Help us to be patient and wait for Your perfect timing and preparation. Cleanse us, equip us, and make us vessels of honor, ready for every good work You have planned. Teach us to walk close with You, working with Your Spirit, not in our own ability. May our lives bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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