Called and Kept
by Rachel Bunn
“Why would you do that?” “Don’t you love what you do and the people you do it with?” “Maybe that’s really irresponsible?” “Can’t you just do both?” “What will you do?!”
These were the questions I asked myself when I voluntarily decided to leave my position as the President of a small business to be a stay-at-home mother. It was a whirlwind of accusation, confusion, guilt, and uncertainty. But God placed this decision on my heart, and I obeyed. It was difficult, full of grief, yet also a relief—and all of those emotions remain true today.
Now, my only direct reports are eight, five, and three. They are demanding, cuddly, require lots of on-the-job-training, and are also in need of a Savior. And I am not that Savior, no matter how extensive my leadership experience is. Since coming home full-time, I have seen my own desperate need for Jesus in merciful ways.
First, my identity was shaken, revealing that I had rooted my worth in my career rather than in Christ. Second, I realized how often I wake up putting my own kingdom first, not God's. Third, my illusion of control was shattered—whether it's shepherding a toddler back to bed at 2:00 AM, struggling through second-grade math, or comforting a crying kindergartener, I am constantly reminded of my dependence on God. I have found myself pressed with my forehead against my back door in frustration, only to be met by his grace, convicting me and reminding me of the Gospel.
Identity & Union with Jesus
When we become followers of Jesus, by repenting of our sin, acknowledging Christ as Lord of our lives, believing and trusting in all that he has done for us, we become new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17). This means that our past failures, successes, and even the ways we once defined ourselves - including our work - are reinterpreted in light of the redemption offered by Christ. We do not find our value in a title, whether it is “mom” or “president”, nor do we attach our worth to our completed to-do lists or career accomplishments. We are loved by God and there is nothing we can do to gain or lose his love (John 3:16; John 15:13-14; Romans 8:38-39).
Even while working full-time, my identity was always meant to be rooted in Christ (Galatians 2:20; John 15:4-5). But leaving my career revealed a hidden misbelief: I had tied my value to my professional success. The bitterness I felt exposed the lie that my worth was measured by my work.
Friends, we can glorify God in the workforce and at home. We get to display God’s goodness and love to our industries and God’s patience and compassion to our families with humility and confidence through the help of the Holy Spirit. Jesus's victory on the cross means we are free from finding our identity in what we do. Instead, we are called to reflect his character wherever we are—whether in conference rooms or playrooms. Our focus shifts from striving for self-worth to resting in his grace.
Kingdom & Mission
While work is a significant part of life and can be an important means to serve others, it is not the sum total of who we are. The gospel calls us to live a life of service, compassion, and love that transcends the boundaries of any one sphere of life. Jesus declared, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand" (Matthew 4:17), calling us to be part of His mission in every aspect of life.
Though my main focus is now on my children, my calling remains the same: to proclaim the Gospel and make disciples (Matthew 28:18-20). Every interaction with my kids is an opportunity for discipleship. No, I cannot do this alone, and I will not do it perfectly—just as I didn’t in my career. But God is with me, sanctifying me as he simultaneously works in the hearts of my children, and he has given me a loving community of believers to encourage and support me.
Control & the Sovereignty of God
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that control is an illusion. We try desperately to manage outcomes in our lives, but we are not God. We cannot force our children to obey, make employees perform, or achieve success in either role through sheer willpower.
"In the beginning, God..." (Genesis 1:1) is a powerful reminder for a control maniac like me that God has always been in control. He sustains the universe and holds every detail of our lives in his hands. While there are many times when I do not understand what God is doing or how he is doing it, I can rest from trying to control every outcome because he is infinitely holy, wise, and good, and he loves me fiercely.
This season has forced me to let go of my plans and embrace God’s. Not only did I surrender income, but I gave up friendships, recognition, networks, and comfort. I have not always opened these parts of my life up to God with humility. Most of the time I am grumbling and second-guessing. Will he take care of the people I love? Will he provide for my family’s needs? Will I become insignificant? And why does it have to hurt so much? Through every prayer, God reminds me that every twist in my story is a part of his grand design—a design that is messy, unpredictable, yet profoundly perfect. God’s sovereign plan for my life (and yours) is to be shaped into the image of his Son, Jesus. He will supremely use any circumstance for my good and his glory (Romans 8:28-30). By his grace, I can trust him with my life.
Embracing the Journey
To anyone at a crossroads, burdened by expectations, or re-evaluating their priorities—you are not alone. Whether you’re stepping away from a career, shifting your focus, or seeking a deeper connection with God, remember that his call is both gentle and bold. He meets us where we are and transforms our doubts into testimonies of grace.
I invite you to embrace your own journey of redefinition. Let God rewrite your narrative. In every role, challenge, and triumph, you are loved and led by the One who holds it all.