Today’s Post By: Rae Lynn DeAngelis
If there is one thing I have learned as a Christian, it’s that my comfort days are over. Just when I begin settling into a season of life or an area of ministry, God picks me up and plunks me down into something new and unfamiliar. Since I’m a creature of habit who thrives on routine, this constant shaking-up can be a bit unsettling. Although change is a bit disconcerting, it has helped me grow a lot as a Christian woman.
“Sometimes we can settle into a spiritual comfort zone, unaware that our spiritual health may be slowly but surely deteriorating. But trying new spiritual activities can help our spirits remain whole and strong and keep us in touch with God’s will. When we move beyond our comfort zone, we grow.” ~ Upper Room
Over the years I’ve learned to trust God more. As a result, I continually learn new things about myself. Although I am quiet by nature, I can now go into a group of strangers and strike up a conversation without a lot of anxiety. I’ve always thought of myself as a follower, and yet God continually places me in positions of leadership. I’ve always enjoyed reading and learning, but now I have opportunities to write and teach.
If I had rejected God’s invitation to step out of my comfort zone each time things grew uncomfortable, I would have missed out on some pretty amazing experiences and wouldn’t be doing many of the things I do today. Today, not only am I writing, but I am also teaching, speaking, and leading a ministry.
“In a desert land he found him, in a barren and howling waste. He shielded him and cared for him; he guarded him as the apple of his eye, like an eagle that stirs up its nest and hovers over its young, that spreads its wings to catch them and carries them on its pinions.” (Deuteronomy 32:10-11)
Like a baby eagle that is learning to fly, sometimes we need a little push to get out of the nest.
“Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:30-31)
Embrace the challenges that God brings your way. Be bold for Christ and never fear—God is there to catch you if you fall.
