Moving beyond our comfort zone is not the easiest thing to do. But if we call ourselves Jesus followers it is definitely something we are called to do. I’ve heard it said again and again, If you became a Christian to solve all your problems and live a life of comfort then you have a HUGE surprise coming your way. The Bible is full of examples of people called to step out in boldness and in faith. 99.9% of the time the waters they were stepping into were unknown and scary. Let’s consider Mary, the Mother of Jesus. She had a pretty comfy life prior to meeting Gabriel. Falling in love, planning a wedding, probably thinking about the family they will start together. Then BAM! God calls. She steps completely into the pain that sometimes comes along with obedience. Her and Joseph both step into it. Wildly and boldly if you ask me. Their whole lives (and ours) are forever changed because of their obedience. God did not call on Mary to kinda sorta follow and trust His plan. No, she and Joseph had to trust wholeheartedly, completely, boldly. The waters they were facing were completely uncharted. All they knew is what God told them to do and that He was with them.

The same is true for us. God wants us to step out of our comfort zone in obedience. To walk in faith. To be generous with our time, with our stories, with our brokenness, with our prayers, with our possessions, with our smiles, with our talents. It all belongs to Him anyway! He did not create us to just stay safely and quietly in the harbor.

But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." James 1:22

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

Blessings,
Audra Shuey