Accepting callings in the Church

[JAHS]

1 hour ago, LoudmouthMormon said:

Your poll is missing an option:

- Be open and transparent with your bishop/Stake President about your concerns and limitations.  Tell the dang truth (both to him, and to yourself) about why you're worried about the calling.  Counsel with your priesthood leader on the matter, and come to an agreement with him and the Lord on what to do.

IMO, that option is the clear winner.  I wish more folks understood that. 

I was offered a calling, did this, and got offered a different calling from a thankful bishop who wished more folks would just be truthful with him.  I've sat in bishopric meetings and watched men do their absolute best to wring every available drop of spiritual guidance into their mix of things they know about the members, trying to find something that works best for everyone. I've watched people accept callings under false pretenses "Sure bishop, no problem!" followed by going inactive or never showing up because you have to work.  I've also watched folks speak openly about what they're good at, what they like to do, favorite and least favorite callings, and why.  No really, let your bishop know you.

 

Your option might be included in the "can be refused under certain circumstances" option. Hard to think of every possible choice to add in a poll. 
I think it is a good idea to let the Bishop know upfront what is reasonably possible for a member. They may not be aware of certain family or work circumstances that might interfere with certain callings.
 

[Buckeye]

2 hours ago, JAHS said:

So what do active faithful members do with statements from general authorities like Elder Boyd K Packer when he said:
"Bishops are inspired! Each of us has agency to accept or reject counsel from our leaders, but never disregard the counsel of your bishop, whether given over the pulpit or individually, and never turn down a call from your bishop."  (The Bishop and His Counselors 1999 Ensign)

 

You take that counsel in good faith and recognize the limits of our church leaders' authority. Apostles, just like Bishops, have limited authority. They are to govern the church, but not our lives or our families. If they claim to receive revelation for what's best for your family, they overstep their bounds the same as if a young man tells a young woman he received revelation for her to marry him.

[Buckeye]

As support for my view, consider this guidance from a recent FP letter regarding changes to temple policies:

"Mothers with dependent children and brethren serving in certain callings may now serve as ordinance workers. Members should review their circumstances and avoid placing undue burdens on themselves and their families as they consider these service opportunities."

https://bycommonconsent.com/2019/03/01/women-with-minor-children-can-now-serve-as-temple-ordinance-workers/ (emphasis mine)

 

It is members who decide whether the burden is appropriate. Not a bishop or apostle. 

[JAHS]

1 hour ago, Buckeye said:

4 hours ago, JAHS said:

So what do active faithful members do with statements from general authorities like Elder Boyd K Packer when he said:
"Bishops are inspired! Each of us has agency to accept or reject counsel from our leaders, but never disregard the counsel of your bishop, whether given over the pulpit or individually, and never turn down a call from your bishop."  (The Bishop and His Counselors 1999 Ensign)

 

You take that counsel in good faith and recognize the limits of our church leaders' authority. Apostles, just like Bishops, have limited authority. They are to govern the church, but not our lives or our families. If they claim to receive revelation for what's best for your family, they overstep their bounds the same as if a young man tells a young woman he received revelation for her to marry him.

They say what they believe is best for all church members in general and then let the individual members use their agency to choose to do what they want. 
I suppose one might consider Elder Packer's personal hard line attitude for church activity when he said that. Other general authorities might not be so strict about it. 
I have had a few who have actually told me that sometimes it's OK to say no to a calling if it's for a good reason. 

Edited April 4, 2019 by JAHS