Called Out, Set Apart: When Obedience Feels Like Isolation

Unsplash [photo by Haseeb Jamil]

Saying "yes" to God's call is often idealized, yet the reality can be lonely. Accepting this path may lead you to walk a journey that others neither comprehend nor are willing to accompany you on. The pain of lost relationships, the quiet of a misunderstood purpose, and the isolation of spiritual growth are all part of the refining fire. However, take comfort: you are not alone—you are set apart.

I recall a few years back when the Lord spoke to me about the mission ahead. It was one of the rare occasions when He addressed the calling on my life directly, as it was usually revealed through dreams, visions, and prophetic words from others. This time, however, He spoke to me clearly, assuring me that there was significant work ahead but that I shouldn't be afraid, as He would be with me every step of the way and equip me for the task. He also mentioned that people who believed they were more "anointed" or were more knowledgeable in spiritual matters would rise up against me when I speak the truth of God's word to the world, but He would always be there to defend me, so I shouldn't fear. He shared much more, and despite His reassurance not to be afraid, I began to panic. The thought made me feel like Moses, feeling inadequate, and like Jonah, wanting to flee in the opposite direction. What challenges will I have to face to continue to prepare for this assignment? I wondered to myself.

Friends, when God calls you, He often calls you away. Away from comfort. Away from compromise. Away from certain relationships, habits, and environments that cannot support where He intends to lead you. Being "called away or called out" can resemble feeling excluded- left out or excluded from circles, conversations, and connections you once valued.

Beloved rest assured, you are not forsaken. You are being set apart. “Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord.” —2 Corinthians 6:17 (NKJV)

Holiness isn't just about purity; it's about proximity to God. Sometimes, to draw near to Him, we must let go of what holds us back—even if it’s people we love.

The Bible offers numerous examples of people who began their journey or mission while experiencing the pain of separation. They made sacrifices but ultimately accomplished remarkable and extraordinary deeds in the name of the Lord, profoundly affecting future generations. Today, we benefit from the obedience of these individuals. Let me mention a few of them, starting with

1. Abraham — The Father of Faith

   Sacrifice: Left his homeland, family, and familiar life (Genesis 12); was willing to offer Isaac in obedience (Genesis 22). Through him, all nations were blessed (Galatians 3:8). His faith laid the foundation for both the Jewish nation and the lineage of Christ.

   “By faith Abraham obeyed… not knowing where he was going.” —Hebrews 11:8

   
   

2. Moses — The Deliverer

   Sacrifice: He gave up the luxuries of Pharaoh's palace to lead a dissatisfied people toward freedom. He freed Israel from Egyptian bondage and received the Ten Commandments (Exodus 3–34). His leadership still inspires spiritual courage and perseverance.

   He chose to be mistreated with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.” —Hebrews 11:25

   
   

3. Mary, Mother of Jesus — The Surrendered Vessel

   Sacrifice: Endured social shame, the pain of motherhood, and witnessing the crucifixion of her Son. Her humble “yes” to God brought forth the Savior (Luke 1:38). Her obedience is a model of quiet, world-changing surrender.

   
   

4. Paul — The Tireless Missionary

   Sacrifice: Gave up prestige as a Pharisee, endured beatings, imprisonments, and isolation (2 Corinthians 11:23–28). He authored much of the New Testament, planted churches, and shaped Christian theology. His letters continue to guide believers today. “I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” —Philippians 3:8

   
   

   

   Unsplash [photo by Travis Fish]

And lastly,

6. Jesus Christ — The Ultimate Example

Sacrifice: Left heaven’s glory, bore the weight of humanity’s sin, and died a criminal’s death (Philippians 2:5–8). Through His obedience, redemption was made possible for all (Romans 5:19). His life and sacrifice are the heartbeat of the gospel.

Beloved, each of these lives conveys a strong message: God doesn’t lead us to easy paths—He calls us to make an eternal impact. The journey might be narrow, demanding, and sometimes solitary, but each obedient step leaves a lasting legacy.

Lord, when the road gets lonely, remind me that You are near. Help me embrace being set apart—not as rejection, but as refinement. Let my obedience bring You glory, even when it costs me comfort. Give me courage to stand, even when I stand alone.

I hope you were encouraged by this post. Thank you for reading!

I remain Yours in The Faith,

Margaret (MKO)