Out of my Comfort Zone

Almost every summer I have had a holiday at a family property on a lake in Maine. I love to swim, but the lake temperature never warms up to the temperature of the air. As a child this didn’t bother me; I could run in without caring or even feeling the coolness of the water. 

Now I find myself more cautious, slowly walking in one step at a time. I already know the water will be chilly, but I also know that it will feel good once I’m in. With only one foot in the cold water, however, I struggle to focus on the benefits of the swim. 

As I reflected on this scenario, God showed me that I pull back from change in the same way when he leads me out of my comfort zone. Once it was starting a business from home so I that I could be there with my children. Another time it was taking online classes even though I had been out of education for many years. In both situations I had the goal in mind but hesitated to commit fully – just as I did when entering the cold lake. To experience the abundant life God wants for me, I can’t always stay in my comfort zone. Rather than facing change with fear, I want to press forward with perseverance, eager to follow God’s next steps for my life.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to follow you even when we feel uncomfortable or fearful. We want to trust you with our lives. Amen