When God Opens the Door

In 2003, when I was still a deacon, I remember one Sunday during Holy Badarak at Etchmiadzin, while I was watching the celebrant at the Altar, something stirred inside of me. I felt a strong, unshakable desire—almost a pull—to be on that Altar myself, to celebrate the Badarak one day.

A few weeks later, I was with His Holiness Karekin II when he suddenly turned to me and asked, “Are you ready for ordination this coming Sunday?” It was like the voice of God confirming what He had already planted in my heart. This is how God works in our lives: He places a desire in your heart, then provides signs, confirmations, and opens the right doors at the right time.

But not every desire comes from God; sometimes they stem from our own ambitions or outside pressures, which is why discernment is so important. We have to pray. We have to listen. And when God brings alignment, when the inner desire meets the outward confirmation, you know it is His will.

I was only 22 years old when I said yes to that call. To make such a life-altering decision at that age, to commit myself as a celibate priest, seemed overwhelming. But looking back, I see how God was guiding me all along, planting the desire, providing the confirmation, and equipping me for the journey.

Here’s the point: when God puts a desire in your heart, you don’t have to be afraid. You don’t have to figure it all out. You don’t have to have every step planned. If God gave you the desire, He will also give you the strength.

The Scripture says, “For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose” (Philippians 2:13). Notice, it doesn’t say it’s all up to you. It says God works in you—He gives you the will, the desire, and the ability.

Some of you may be standing at a crossroads today. Maybe it’s a career decision, a relationship, or a big step you’re not sure you’re ready for. Bring it before God. Ask Him for guidance. Then watch for His confirmation. When the desire in your heart is matched by His sign, you can move forward with confidence. If He opens the door, He will walk with you through it.