The following worksheet is provided to help clarify your calling in life. It is organized to help you see how God has worked in the past, is working in the present, and how He will work in your life in the future.

Introductory Statement to Worksheet
In the past, God used specific characteristics, events, people and teachings to guide your direction and thinking. These influenced your desires. God is in control, and your life is influenced by design – not coincidence. Direction and confidence for the present and future can be aided by reflecting on what has occurred in the past.

By looking at the past and seeing how it has led you to the present, you can understand your calling and gain insight into your current situation. You will either notice ways in which your present responsibilities fulfil what God has prepared in the past, or you may see that He wants to make some changes as you look to the future.

Once you have thoroughly examined the past and the present, it is time to look to the future. A person without a vision can lose sight of his/her purpose in life and become program-centred. A person with a vision is not easily stopped by circumstances or Satan’s attacks. When you have dreams for the future, your faith will be fresh and growing. Ask God to sharpen those dreams that are in accord with His will.         (1 Cor 9:26)

The process of examining the past and the present and finding answers to questions about the future must be accompanied by prayer. Prayer begins the search, accompanies each question and forms the conclusions. God will speak to you as you seek His will.

A well-defined personal vision is foundational to a fruitful life. When you know God’s desires, you will have more confidence and inner strength. However, understanding God’s desires isn’t something that will happen in a few minutes. Take time to put your thoughts down on paper by working through this worksheet. Then take periodic times alone with the Lord to seek His desires for the needs He is showing you.

PERSONAL VISION is discerning influences that God has used in a person’s life in the past which have helped to develop convictions for living in the present. It also includes hopes and dreams for the future.

1. PAST
In the past, God used specific circumstances (good and bad), influences and people to shape your direction and thinking. God is in control and your life is influenced by design – not coincidence. Even with the difficult things Joseph could say to his brothers, “You meant it for bad, but God meant it for good.” (Gen 50:20) Direction for the present and future can be aided by reflecting on what God has allowed in the past.

a) What spiritual gifts do I possess? How have I used them in my life?

 

b) What passions has God placed in my heart? Where do I feel stirred to make an impact? Where do I see things that aren’t and say “why not”?

 

c) What natural skills and acquired abilities do I possess?

 

d) What are my personality strengths and weaknesses? How do I feel about my level of Emotional Intelligence (awareness of myself and others)?

 

e) What circumstances/experiences (good and bad) have influenced my life?

 

f) What people have influenced my life? What is it about them that has influenced me?

 

g) What scriptures/quotes have influenced my thinking, priorities, direction?

 

2. PRESENT
Writing specifics from the past leads to insight into your present situation.

a) What strengths do others believe God has given me?

 

b) In what ways am I making an impact with my life right now?

 

c) How focused and purposeful is my life right now? Am I happy with the disciplines of my life? (self leadership)

 

d) How much of my life’s potential have I fulfilled to this point in time?

 

 

3. FUTURE
Once you have examined the past and present, it is time to look to the future. A person with a vision is not easily stopped by circumstances or Satan’s attacks. When you have dreams for the future, your faith will be fresh and growing. Ask God to shape your vision in accord with His will.

a) Summarise the details of the past and present and determine as clearly as possible what they might say about my future.

 

b) If I could do for God whatever I wanted to do, and knew I wouldn’t fail, what is it I would do? What is my life’s purpose statement?

 

c) What initiatives could I take in the next 12 months to see this vision confirmed and established?

 

d) What might be true of my life in 5 years as I grow in accord with my vision?

 

e) Who could I approach to mentor me? To whom can I communicate my developing vision, in order that I might receive guidance, encouragement and feedback?

 

f) What are the things that can hinder this vision and how can I overcome these hindrances? What are the good things I need to give up so I can pursue the best things as I live a focussed life?

HINDRANCES                                                                                     WAYS TO OVERCOME

 

 

 

 

g) What is the legacy that I would like to leave in regard to my life? What epitaph would I like written on my tombstone?

 

 Key Point :  Allow God to sharpen those dreams which are according to His will. A person with no hopes beyond his/her present situation can easily lose sight of his/her purpose in life and become program centred.