I learned at a young age that when I am super comfortable, I am no longer growing or challenged.
As a kid, I found it to be easier not to study for any tests until the last minute and I got okay grades. I didn’t challenge myself and never reached my potential.
When at the gym, I found it easy and comfortable to just walk on the treadmill or lift some light weights. I never got stronger, faster, out of breath or challenged myself.
At work, I found it to be easy and comfortable to do the bare minimum that was required of me. I never pushed myself, never went above and beyond, never got a raise or a promotion.
When in marriage, I found it to be easier to avoid confrontation so I didn’t stir up any arguments. It was more comfortable than saying how I really felt and with the lack of communication, it was harder to move forward. It felt like we were always in the same place.
At church, I wouldn’t sing or pray out loud or raise my hands, because it was more comfortable that way. I never opened myself up to what God wanted to do had I stopped caring about “what’s comfortable”.
The thing is, as Christians, God never promised that we lead easy, comfortable lives.
And the truth is, if you are not consistently uncomfortable, you will never grow, mature or become any better.
It is in those hard, gritty, uncomfortable moments that we grow the most.
That moment you do more than what’s required at work, your supervisor recognizes it and promotes you to a better position.
The moment you work harder at the gym even though it’s not comfortable. That’s when you see strength, speed and results.
The moment you start praying out loud and forcing yourself to read your Bible, even though it’s outside your comfort zone. That’s when you see authority, growth and hear God’s voice more clearly.
“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
In the moments that we allow ourselves to be uncomfortable, God is right there beside us. He gives us courage and strength. It gives Him the opportunity to help us grow into who we are meant to be.
Our comfort zone is dangerous. But when we step outside of that comfort zone, that’s when you will grow.
So, can you be a comfortable Christian? Sure, but you’ll never reach your potential or receive all that God has for you.
A comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing ever grows there.
Response Journal Questions
1. Are you currently comfortable? Or do you need to push yourself more?
2. What areas can you push yourself outside your comfort zone in order to see some growth?
Pray with me!
Father God, help me to step outside my comfort zone. I want to grow. Give me courage and keep reminding me that you are right by my side. I want to be the best I can be, reach my potential and receive all that you have for me. Open me up, challenge me and push me. Help me to grow even though it may be uncomfortable or hard. I give you all of myself. I want so much growth in my life that I don’t know what to do with it.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
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