Many Christians sincerely want to serve God but find themselves asking the same question:
“What is God calling me to do?”
It’s an important question. But as Pastor Henry Cotton Jr. explains in the latest episode of the St. James Missionary Baptist Church Podcast, many believers spend so much time waiting for a specific calling that they overlook the calling God has already given every follower of Christ.
The Christian life was never intended to be lived from the sidelines. From the moment we are born again, we become citizens of God’s Kingdom and participants in His work.
In this encouraging podcast, Pastor Cotton shares five biblical steps every Christian must continually take as part of an active walk with Christ.
1. Step Up
God has not called His people to live in fear.
Drawing from Isaiah 41:10 and 2 Timothy 1:7, Pastor Cotton reminds believers that God provides the strength, courage, and power needed to follow Him. Stepping up means being willing to answer God’s call—even before knowing every detail of the journey.
Faith begins with availability.
2. Step Down
Before God can fully use us, we must humble ourselves.
Pastor Cotton points to Romans 12:3 and 1 Peter 5:6 to remind us that pride, personal comfort, and self-reliance often become barriers to God’s work. Stepping down means surrendering our own agenda so we become fit for the Master’s use.
God doesn’t ask us to direct His mission.
He asks us to faithfully participate in it.
3. Step In
When God opens a door, believers are called to walk through it.
Using the example of Samuel responding to God’s voice, Pastor Cotton encourages Christians not to hesitate once they recognize God’s direction. Obedience requires commitment—not simply agreement.
Faith isn’t passive.
It steps into what God has prepared.
4. Step Out
Jesus has already given every believer a commission:
“Go therefore and make disciples…”
Pastor Cotton reminds listeners that many Christians are waiting for a special assignment while overlooking Christ’s clear command to share the Gospel.
Not everyone will preach behind a pulpit.
Some will encourage a neighbor.
Some will hand out Scripture.
Some will simply share the testimony of what Christ has done in their own lives.
Every believer has a witness.
Every believer has someone they can reach.
5. Step Lively
Serving God should never become routine or joyless.
Referencing Galatians 6:9 and Romans 12:11, Pastor Cotton encourages Christians to remain enthusiastic and faithful, even when they cannot immediately see the results of their labor.
The harvest belongs to God.
Our responsibility is faithfulness.
Some seeds we plant today may bear fruit long after we’ve moved on.
That is why believers must never grow weary in doing good.
Living the Christian Life Every Day
One of the strongest reminders throughout the podcast is that these five steps are not one-time decisions.
They are daily disciplines.
Every day presents new opportunities to trust God, humble ourselves, serve others, share the Gospel, and remain faithful despite challenges.
Pastor Cotton also reminds listeners that spiritual opposition is real. Every believer will encounter obstacles designed to discourage them from fulfilling God’s purpose. Yet Scripture calls us to persevere, knowing that God equips those He calls.
Listen to the Full Podcast
This article provides only a brief overview of Pastor Henry Cotton Jr.’s message.
In the full podcast, Pastor Cotton expands on each of these five steps with biblical teaching, practical application, and encouragement for believers seeking to strengthen their daily walk with Christ.
Whether you’re a new believer wondering where to begin or a longtime Christian looking to renew your commitment, this message offers timeless biblical guidance rooted in God’s Word.
Listen to the full St. James Missionary Baptist Church Podcast with Pastor Henry Cotton Jr. and discover how these five simple—but essential—steps can help you live your faith with greater purpose, confidence, and obedience.
